You just received word that your offer on your dream home was accepted — congrats! This is an exciting first step in upgrading your life and planning for your future. You probably already have a lengthy checklist of to-dos before move-in day, including selling items, buying pieces, hiring a moving company, and more.
But while it’s easy to be swept up in decorating your new home, from choosing new furniture for your master bedroom or selecting a fresh paint color for the kitchen, an important part of moving in is outfitting your home with the right security system. The right security precautions help protect you and your family from the moment you call your new residence yours.
These three reasons show why security shouldn’t fall off your to-do list before moving into your dream home.
1. Provides Peace of Mind
Was that someone knocking on your door late at night, or was it just a noise outside? Is that creak you hear someone tiptoeing through your living room, or is it just the house settling? These types of questions can keep you up at night, staring at the ceiling, wondering if you’re just hearing things or if there is a reason to be on high alert. With the right security, you and your family will feel more at ease and won’t be wrestling with these intrusive thoughts at all hours of the day.
Upon move-in, it’s a good idea to go ahead and change the locks on the doors. You don’t know who the last homeowner gave a spare key to, nor do you want to find out! Replace or re-key every door (front door, back door, patio doors, and garage) as soon as you can. While you’re at it, inspect each door and window lock to ensure they’re in working order. Even if you had a home inspection, it’s never a bad idea to double-check that everything is in working order.
Additionally, you’ll also want to look into home security systems. Modern-day systems can offer 24/7 visibility from your mobile device, allowing you to see what’s going on inside and outside of your home anytime. This is convenient for those who travel frequently, as well as those who are unfamiliar with their new neighborhood and may want to monitor things more closely soon after moving in.
To choose the right system for your needs and your home, you’ll want to compare home security systems. This tool allows homeowners to compare local home security options side-by-side. This simplifies the process, whittling down which systems are available in your zip code based on your home size, layout, and (of course) budget. You’ll feel more confident in your final decision knowing that you selected the best home security system without overpaying for it or choosing one that’s not appropriate for your new residence.
2. Enhances Deterrence
Similar to the tactics performed by Kevin in Home Alone, a robust security system puts your home on the defensive. But instead of relying on swinging paint cans and heating doorknobs, a multi-stage system utilizes newer forms of technology.
Visible cameras are a great place to start. When a potential burglar spots a camera, they recognize that the home’s exterior is protected, and can generally expect that the interior is also under watch. Having a security sign or decal can work, but also having visible cameras provides an additional layer of security. In fact, research shows that a visible alarm system can deter more than half of attempted burglars!
Motion-activated lighting is another opportunity to protect your home. When the sensor picks up any form of movement, the lights will go on. This can be used throughout your landscaping as well as the entryway, back door, and garage. Another option is having audible alarms. Door and window sensors can alert you and your neighbors if something goes awry. This can be beneficial if you aren’t home, especially if the alarm automatically alerts authorities to come to your home.
3. Safeguards Your Assets
Until you begin packing up your belongings for move-in day, you may not realize just how many valuables you possess. These items may be valuable because they are financially worth something, or they may have sentimental value. Your grandmother’s necklace, your child’s first piggy bank, and your wedding album cannot be replaced. An updated, multi-level security system safeguards your assets. It protects your valuables from theft, keeping your personal belongings as safe as possible.
These security solutions prevent unauthorized access, meaning that only you can decide who is able to enter your home and when. If you’ve lent a key to a neighbor while you’re on vacation, video monitoring will allow you to see that they themselves are entering and they aren’t inviting others into your home as well. Or if you have a regular dog walker, you can be certain what times of day they are coming and that they are only entering and exiting your home when requested. This type of security keeps your valuables secure, which in turn reduces anxiety and provides a level of reassurance as well.
A Secure Home is a Happy Home
Security is a key component of creating a thriving, happy home. Outfitting your home with a security system and other protective measures helps ensure your family’s well-being, allowing you to fully enjoy your dream home.