Summer is finally upon us and many of us are eager to get summer vacation started!  Whether you are planning a long weekend away, or a month long road trip, it is important to leave your home secure while you are enjoying your travels.  Here are some tips to keeping your home safe while you are out of town.

1. Let your close neighbors know you will be away.  If you have a good relationship with your neighbors, letting them know the dates that you will be out of town will ensure that there will be an extra pair of eyes on your home while you are away.  Your neighbors will likely know best if there is any suspicious activity around your property and can alert the appropriate authorities.

2. Place a hold on your mail, including UPS or FedEx packages.  Don’t let mail piling up or boxes left on your doorstep bring attention to the fact that you’re not home.

3. Set up lights on timers.  Having interior lights that come on during the evening hours will help give the appearance that someone is home and can deter unwanted activity around your property at night.

4. Park your car in the driveway.  Getting your car off the street can help protect it from potential break-ins.  Also, don’t leave anything in the car that could be perceived as valuable, even if it is just an empty backpack or bag.  

5. Check that all doors are locked, windows are closed and your alarm system is set.  Make sure when you are leaving town that you give yourself enough time to double check that everything is shut and locked.  Getting the family out of the house to make a flight can sometimes be chaotic, but don’t let the excitement detract from leaving your home secure.

Protecting your home and ensuring it’s security while you are away makes every vacation more relaxed and enjoyable.  Happy summer vacation and if you are looking for a Seattle realtor to buy or sell a home in Seattle, contact Scott Haveson!