6 Tips to Protect Your Home from Theft During the Holidays

As you're preparing for family gatherings, office parties, and other holiday events, the last thing you want to worry about is a home invasion. Unfortunately, the change in routine and hectic schedules that often accompany this time of year create a perfect opportunity for would-be thieves.

Our REALTORS® want you and your family to stay safe and secure while enjoying yourselves this holiday season. Here are six tips to help keep your home burglar-free. 

1. Be Careful What You Share
   Sharing on social media is a way of life for most of us, but when you over-share, you open yourself up for potential problems. If you're traveling during the holidays, don't post details about when you'll be gone. Remember that every time you check into a location, whether it's around the corner or across the globe, you're letting everyone who can see your feed know your house is empty.
   
   
2. Decorate Wisely
   Adding plenty of decorative lights to your yard doesn't just look great, it also draws attention to your house. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as thieves are less likely to skulk around a well-lit location. Be careful, however, not to create hiding places for thieves by placing large decorations close to entry points like doors and windows.
   
   
3. Use Smart Home Technology
   Many of the Mansfield homes for sale are equipped with smart-home technology like smart locks, video doorbells, and automatic lights. These have grown in popularity because they give homeowners more control and increase security year-round. If your home doesn't already have these features, consider making an upgrade before the holiday season.
   
   
4. Take Your Time When Leaving
   With all the hustle and bustle, it's easy to run out the door without double-checking to ensure your home is secure. Before you leave the house, stop and take a deep breath. Then check to make sure you've closed the blinds, turned on a light, locked all your doors, and set your alarm. Take an extra minute when pulling out of your driveway to watch your garage door close.
   
   
5. Ask for Help
   If you're going to be away from your home for more than a day or two, ask a friend or neighbor to give you a hand or hire someone to house sit. Make sure your mailbox is emptied daily, newspapers are picked up, and your driveway is shoveled. Having cars come and go from your house while you're gone also helps confuse any potential thieves, making them less likely to target your home.
   
   
6. Outsmart Package Thieves
   A pile of packages sitting out in front of your house is a clear indicator that nobody's home. If possible, try to have packages delivered to your workplace or ask a neighbor to pick them up and hold them for you. If that's not an option, consider picking up your packages at retail locations or having them held at the post office. Some carriers like FedEx and UPS also allow you to schedule deliveries for times when you know someone will be there to accept them.  

Your Mansfield Real Estate Professionals

Whether you're thinking about buying or selling a home, the professionals at Haring Realty can make the process smooth and enjoyable. Contact us today to discuss your real estate goals and learn how we can help.