Easy Ways to Increase Home Security

Have you considered putting your house on the market recently? Studies show that simple renovations around the house can increase home value, without breaking the bank. If you're willing (and able) to put in the time and money for renovations, your house has a better chance of standing out. On the other hand, not everyone has the time to remodel a bathroom. According to Realty Times, homebuyers also find value in home security. From added safety to potentially lowering your homeowner's insurance, increasing home security has benefits for those staying in their home and those trying to sell their home.

Replace Outdoor Lighting

If you've had outdoor lighting or "floodlights" before, you know just how annoying it can be when every little thing sends blazing light through your window in the middle of the night. Thankfully, as technology has advanced, so has home security. For those in need of a quick, affordable option, replacing current outdoor bulbs with smart bulbs will do the trick. The majority of smart bulbs will connect directly to your phone, and give you the option to:

• Change the bulb color
• Set the bulbs on a timer
• Increase/decrease intensity

Homeowners can pay anywhere from $15-$50 per bulb, depending on the capabilities and features. (Most home improvement stores carry multiple bulbs that can withstand the outdoor elements, as well.)

Add Smart Locks to Doors

We all know how easy it is to leave the house without locking the door behind us. In some cases, you forget that you went out of the backdoor, leaving it unlocked for anyone to come in. That's where smart locks become incredibly beneficial. Depending on your budget and needs, smart locks range anywhere from $100-$300. These prices may seem a little steep for simple switch-out, but the modern-day features of a smart lock might take you by surprise. Just a few benefits include:

• Setting a lock timer (if the door remains unlocked for a set period, the door will lock itself)
• Push notifications to your email or phone when anyone leaves or arrives (an excellent feature for parents with teenagers)
• Temporary codes for those who need to come in once (plumber, house cleaner, repairman, etc.)
• Lock from afar using your smartphone
• Set voice or phone commands to unlock/lock

Find out more about the highest-rated smart locks of 2020, or research your favorites from Home Depot, Lowe's, Best Buy, or others.

Install Indoor/Outdoor Cameras

Cameras are one of the best ways to increase home security, but it's also one of the most expensive options. If you have the budget for cameras, you can find countless options online that work both indoors and out, withstand weather elements, and even send mobile alerts when it detects movement. Popular brands such as Night Owl, Blink, and Arlo offer packs with multiple cameras and multiple year warranties. Homeowners can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to upwards of $500, depending on the features included.

Additional Security Options

If you're not in the market to upgrade your technology, but you are interested in increasing your overall home security, there are plenty of other ways you can set yourself up for success. Get to know your neighbors. When your neighbors get to know more about you and your routines, they can be another set of eyes on your house. If they see anything slightly suspicious, they might be more likely to let you know. Install window stops. Creating a new boundary between you and potential outside intruders is always a plus. This is also an affordable option for homeowners, versus adding cameras or new lights. Trim shrubbery and trees regularly. Overgrown shrubs can create better hiding spaces for burglars. Make sure to keep your lawn in order, even in the winter. When you own your home, you can make the changes you need to keep yourself, your family, and your belongings safe.

Contact us today to learn more about becoming a homeowner.