Top Home Security Tips While Selling Your Home

The US reals estate market has been coming back to life for some time, and that’s a very good thing for homeowners and for the economy. Now that we are past the holidays, we are getting into that season when people put their homes on the market, and think about a move into their next home this spring or summer. With all the other tasks involved in selling a home, It may seem like an odd time to focus on home security – but now is when it could be very important, as strangers could be trooping through your residence, and checking out not only the paint colors and wallpaper, but your belongings as well.

In fact, I have read more stories over the past year of burglaries occurring in home on the market. In a few of these reports, the perp was actually a real estate professional: strange, but true. This recent article outlines a few concrete steps you can take to protect your home – and your peace of mind – while your home is being listed and shown.

Undoubtedly, more and more sellers throughout the U.S. are deciding to put their home on the market, and one of the best tools used by real estate agents is the open house. During an open house, a large number of buyers can view the house at one time. It’s a great way to build buzz and attract a potential buyer. Unfortunately, an open house can also create a security threat for the homeowners.

1.    Don’t forget the sign-in sheet. A sign-in sheet can not only help keep a record of who’s been in a home for marketing purposes, but also for security purposes, in case something goes missing. If a visitor is reluctant to sign the sheet, the realtor or homeowner should explain to them that because of security reasons, they can’t enter the open house without doing so. Since thieves could sign-in using a fake name, it’s also a good idea to ask for a photo ID when people enter the open house.

2.    All valuables should be located in a locked safe, or at a different location during the open house. Never leave anything, including laptops and tablets, out in the open during this type of event.

Remember, electronics are on the short list of things thieves like to target. But we do like the idea of the safe – especially if it is securely attached to the home!

3.    A real estate agent or homeowner may want to put a sign at the front door of the home indicating that it will be shown one group at a time. The person holding the open house needs to remain in control of the crowd, because if it becomes chaotic, it can leave a lot of opportunity for a thief.

4.    Have either family members or employees of the real estate agency located strategically around the house during an open house. They can help keep an eye on what’s going on, and also answer any questions potential buyers may have—it’s a win-win.

5.    After an open house, the Realtor or homeowner should go through and check that no windows or doors have been left opened or unlocked. Many times, thieves will use this trick so they can easily return later. Even the best wireless alarm system can’t protect against an unlocked door- so do a thorough check once the open house ends.

At FrontPoint we love to share all kinds of good advice about home security, including timely tips on protecting your home and family. After all, your home may be your most valuable asset – it deserves your attention. And of course, we believe that your monitored alarm systems is the best way to increase your sense of security, and peace of mind.

Home Security Systems Work

Research has shown that a home with a monitored alarm system is only one third as likely to experience a burglary as the unprotected home next door. That’s one reason why more and more lists of home security reconditions offered by local law enforcement recommend monitored home security, and it’s not just having that system in place: you also have to be disciplined about arming it, even when you are at home.

FrontPoint is the only nationwide alarm company to use safer cellular monitoring on every system we've ever sold, starting in 2007 – and we are still keeping that promise! Smart homeowners also know us for our smarter Interactive level of monitoring. Make sure your home is protected: by FrontPoint, the leader in wireless home security, and the #1 ranked alarm company in the US. And if you happen to be selling your home in the next few months, we wish you all the best.