As a seller, you spend quite a bit of time preparing your home for the market. From decluttering and depersonalizing to making repairs and upgrades, you have plenty to do. But don’t forget to stay vigilant once you begin showing your home to potential buyers. It’s important to keep security in mind when strangers will be touring your home while you are away. Here’s what you need to know to keep your home and belongings safe when you’re selling.
Buyers must make an appointment
That “For Sale” sign in your front yard is a great way to let potential buyers know that your home is on the market. But beware of anyone who knocks on your front door without an appointment. While it may be tempting to let them in to look around – don’t. Instead, share your agent’s contact information so they can call and schedule an appointment.
Keep valuables in a safe place
When potential buyers are viewing your home, they are going to be opening closet doors and cabinet drawers. Don’t keep anything valuable in an unsecured location. This includes jewelry, electronics, credit cards, and keys. The best place to store your valuables is in a locked safe. If you don’t have one, then remove these items from your home when you have a showing.
Remove medication
As we mentioned, buyers will be looking at every square inch of your home. Unfortunately, some less-that-honest buyers might take this opportunity to look in your medicine cabinet. If you have any prescription medications, remove them from bathrooms, kitchens, or anywhere else you typically store them. They should also be locked in a safe or taken with you when showing the house.
Hide personal information
Identity theft is becoming more and more common. Don’t make it easy for would-be thieves to steal your personal information. Remove bills, mail, smartphones, and tablets from the premises. Also be sure to password-protect any computers that will be left in the home.
Take your pets with you
If you have pets, then you should ensure they are not at the house when potential buyers visit. Even if your pet is the friendliest on the block, you have no idea how they will react to strangers in your home when you aren’t there. You don’t want to be held liable should your pet attack any visitors in your home.
Install security cameras
If you are truly concerned about the safety of your home while it’s on the market, then you might consider installing security cameras. There are now many affordable home security systems on the market that you can easily install yourself. It can add an extra layer of protection for you and provide you with some peace of mind.
Keep the door locked
Even if you’re leaving a few minutes before the house is shown, you should lock the door. Any agent coming to your home will know how to access the property. Don’t leave yourself open to theft.
Talk with your agent
If you are concerned about the safety of your home when selling, then talk with your real estate agent. Experienced agents will have great tips and advice for keeping your home and valuables protected during the sales process.
