Everyone needs a vacation at some point, and worrying about your home should be the last thing on your mind while you’re out of town. Here are 4 ways to boost home security when you’re not around.
1. Enlist The Help Of Others
Even if you’re only gone for a short amount of time, asking someone you trust to keep an eye on your home can offer a big-time boost in security.
Hiring a house-sitter to collect your mail, mow your lawn, and make your house look lived in can be a great option for longer vacations, as physical changes to your property can tip-off burglars that you’re out of town.
For short trips, it is worthwhile to ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your home and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Having someone who is aware you’re not around can nip crime in the bud, as they’ll be less hesitant to call the police if they notice any unexpected guests around your home.
2. No Give-Aways!
Sharing your vacation photos on social media can be a convenient way to share your experiences with your friends, but it’s best to do so after you’ve returned home. The fact that you’re not around is information that can easily fall into the wrong hands on the web, making you a target for crime.
If you decide to change your voicemail greeting while you’re away, be careful that it does not explicitly state that you’re out of town. It’s fine to tell callers that you’re unable to accept calls for a period of time, but they do not need to know it’s because you’re a thousand miles away.
3. Leave It To The Pros
If you’re looking for a security measure that’s even more reliable than your neighbors, it may be worthwhile to install a home alarm system. Houses that lack security systems are burglarized more often than ones that have an alarm installed, making them a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.
4. Don’t Forget Internal Threats
It’s not only outside threats that you have to consider before heading on vacation! Make sure you prep your home for your absence by unplugging any appliances (toaster, computer, TV) that are at risk of a power surge.
If you live in a cold climate and your pipes are at risk of freezing, ask someone you trust to stop by your home every few days to run the water. Make sure to show them where the water main shut-off is in case a pipe bursts while you’re away.
Interested in more neighborhood safety advice? Contact me today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253!
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3415 W Willow Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85029
Open House
$474,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,997
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692256
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your desert oasis! This stunning home boasts exceptional curb appeal with mature desert landscaping and a freshly painted exterior. Step inside to discover a completely remodeled interior, highlighted by wood plank tile flooring, fresh paint throughout, and recessed lighting, creating a modern and stylish ambiance. The spacious living room is illuminated by two massive windows, flooding the space with natural light. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring white shaker cabinets, sleek black hardware, and a matching black faucet. Quartz countertops, recessed lighting, and pendant lights add both style and functionality to the space, making it the heart of the home. (CLICK TO READ MORE) Retreat to the perfectly sized primary suite, offering quartz countertops, upgraded lighting and fixtures, and its own exit to the backyard through sliding doors. A highlight of this home is the Arizona room, complete with French doors connecting to both the main house and the exterior. Enjoy panoramic views of the gorgeous backyard oasis, featuring a sparkling pool, covered patio, and RV gate with ample space for parking an RV or other recreational vehicles. A shed provides additional storage space, while the fenced-in pool area ensures safety and privacy. Don't miss the opportunity to make this desert retreat your own and experience the ultimate Arizona living!
41906 W Solitare Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138
Open House
$474,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,896
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6694815
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
You will fall in love with this Yukon model where no expense has been spared. When you pull up, you will notice the ungraded exterior and the enclosed front patio with water feature. The upgraded security door opens to the entry with 15' diagonal tile with Belcaro walnut finish lighting. The entry to the den has Italian drapes called Veneto and are on rods with granite fineals. The den has the same drapery and rods with Hunter-Douglas roman shades. The same quality continues into the great room overlooking the extended covered patio. The kitchen has a special stone sinks, large granite counters with glass backspalsh and pull out shelves in all cabinets. Best of all - all applicances stay. The pendant lights match the Belcaro chandelier in the dining room which has sun shades on the side windows. Both bedrooms have upgraded carpet and room darkening roman shades. Both the walk-in closet and the guest bedroom closet have extra shelving. Did you notice the bay window in the master overlooking the oversized backyard? Master bath has an oversized garden tub and separate shower with rain glass. The patio has extended pergola covering with a privacy wall at one end. You have a TV jack and natural gas stub, all overlooking the extra large, perfectly landscaped backyard. The laundry room has cabinets above the washer/dryer and the owner is leaving these appliances for you. The extra length garage has a utility sink, cabinets on two walls, overhead storage, the floor has an epoxy coating and you have a side door to the outside. All of this in the 55+ guard gated lake community of Province; where you can fish in the lakes, walk on one of the 5 miles of walking paths throughout the community, practice your putting, play a game of pickleball or tennis is nothing short of retiring like you mean it! To wrap it all up, inside the 32,000 square foot club house, you have a fitness center, lap pool, library, billiards room, ceramic, sewing, and computer center besides the quaint, gorgeous outdoor pool for perfect solitude or fun gatherings with friends and family. What more can you ask for... all for an affordable price in an incredible community awaiting your arrival !!
2130 E Pierce Street Phoenix, AZ 85006
$473,999
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,637
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6565440
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come and take a look at this brand new 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home! Located near the heart of downtown phoenix with quick access to the I10, 51, and 202 Freeways. A 2 car garage and RV gate are located on the newly built property for your convenience! Don't miss out on this beautiful new build.
18768 E Elizar Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$473,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,070
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6695267
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Entrada Del Oro..... Entrance to Gold! Charming 4BR/3BA home! The front yard offers picture perfect views of the Superstition Mountains and is the ideal place to enjoy evening sunsets. Beautiful wood Laminate flooring throughout with carpet in the bedrooms, kitchen comes w/GE kitchen appliances & Quartz counter tops, two tone interior paint. The front yard comes desert landscaped and driveway is complete with pavers, and a double gate for easy access to the back yard. Make this home yours today!
18741 E Elizar Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$473,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,070
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6679885
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Entrada Del Oro..... Entrance to Gold! Charming 4BR/3BA home! The front yard offers picture perfect views of the Superstition Mountains and is the ideal place to enjoy evening sunsets. Beautiful wood Laminate flooring throughout with carpet in the bedrooms, kitchen comes w/GE kitchen appliances & Quartz counter tops, two tone interior paint. The front yard comes desert landscaped and driveway is complete with pavers, and a double gate for easy access to the back yard. Make this home yours today!
19564 W Cambridge Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396
$473,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,070
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6686661
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this ranch-style Agate home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered entry; a large flex room; a corner kitchen boasting an alternate layout, 42'' cabinets, stainless-steel appliances, an island and an adjacent dining room; an inspired great room; a serene primary suite showcasing a sizable walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; a central laundry; two secondary bedrooms; a full shared bath and a charming covered patio. This home also offers 7'' x 22'' stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, ceiling fan prewiring and additional windows in select rooms, coach lights, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the driveway and walkway.
14380 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387
$473,645
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,123
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6676496
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Up to 2% of total purchase price towards closing costs incentive offer. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply. MLS#6676496 ~ Introducing Plan 35R3 at Rio Vista at Rancho Mercado! The spacious gathering room exudes openness and airiness, seamlessly connected to the dining area and complemented by an inviting kitchen featuring a central island, pantry, and ample counter space. Experience the joy of al fresco dining, quality time with family, or intimate gatherings with friends on the covered back patio. Ascend the stairs to discover the owner's suite boasting a generously sized walk-in closet, double vanity, and luxurious walk-in shower. Three additional bedrooms share a well-appointed full bath, while the convenience of the laundry room completes the second floor. Structural options include: paver front porch, garage service door, alternative A/C location with gate, 8' interior door, and soft water loop.
8410 S 40th Glen Laveen, AZ 85339
$473,500
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,592
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6672626
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Arosa Estates in Laveen South Mountain offer modern family living at its finest. Built in 2018, this contemporary home boasts a family-friendly layout designed for creating lasting memories. With three bedrooms, each featuring walk-in closets, and 2.5 baths, there's ample space for everyone. The kitchen is a highlight, with quartz countertops and a massive island perfect for meal prep or gathering with loved ones. A den/office provides additional space for work or relaxation. Upstairs, a versatile loft can serve as a playroom or extra living area, while two oversized bedrooms offer comfort and privacy. 1st floor ensuite bedroom provides a peaceful retreat from daily stresses. Outside, the finished backyard features artificial turf, designer pavers, and a covered patio, waiting for you. ideal for enjoying Arizona's beautiful weather and outdoor lifestyle. This move-in-ready home boasts quality craftsmanship throughout. With plenty of shopping and restaurants nearby, as well as A+ rated schools within walking distance, daily errands and commuting are a breeze. Welcome to your new home in Arosa Estates!
4780 S Ferric Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212
$473,245
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,785
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6694664
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning home is NOW AVAILABLE in one of Eastmark's neighborhoods, nestled within Mesa's celebrated masterplan. Situated conveniently close to The Great Park, this single-family residence, Plan 2, boasts three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, an upstairs laundry, and a 2-car garage. Home includes designer upgrades specifically selected for this home. Explore the amazing amenities in this dream community, boasting 77 parks, a stunning pool, clubhouse, orange monster play area, skatepark, splash pad, baseball, softball and soccer fields, disc golf, future pickle ball courts and easy access to highways and shopping.
2243 W Firethorn Way Anthem, AZ 85086
$473,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,082
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6620277
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the lowest priced/largest square footage home in Anthem Country Club. Situated in the Guard-gated community of Anthem Golf & Country Club, you can enjoy Mountain Views from the Family Room, Kitchen, & Master Bedroom. Private Backyard with Covered Patio, Extended Saltillo Tile Area, Built-in Gas BBQ with Seating.
1240 E Indigo Street Mesa, AZ 85203
Open House
$473,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,779
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6691114
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming 3 bedroom home in the heart of Mesa with easy access to amenities. Pride of ownership and meticulously kept. Workshop area for extra space along with a great play room facing pool. Owner is leaving all sheds on the property and lawn care equipment. Complete kitchen remodel in 2013 and both bathrooms remodeled in 2022.. Bosch HVAC installed in 2021! High performance water conditioning system throughout home. Extended warrantly on pool through 2025. When you tour this home, you will see the newly painted interior as well. Just too many things to not put in an offer. This home will certainly not last.
22660 N 122nd Avenue Sun City, AZ 85373
$473,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,992
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699146
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful, better than new home prime non-age restricted community in Sun City! This home features a spacious open concept main living area. The kitchen features granite counters with stylish tiled back-splash, upgraded cabinetry, and and SS appliances. The primary bedroom features a spacious closet, and en-suite bath. The home has a perfect low-maintenance back-yard with a covered patio and artificial turf. Located close to parks, schools, shopping, restaurants, and minutes from the 303!