Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or just starting to think about buying your first home, we understand how overwhelming it can be.
From the moment you step inside your new place for the first time, there’s likely a million things on your mind—and one of them should be how safe you’ll feel in this new space. Fortunately, there are tons of easy ways to make sure your home is secure and protected from would-be burglars and other unwanted guests.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| It’s important to prioritize home security when buying a home to protect yourself and your family. |
| Simple measures like installing deadbolts, secure locks, and motion sensor lights can go a long way in improving your home security. |
| Investing in a good home security system is a smart choice that can provide peace of mind and protection for you and your loved ones. |
| Avoid common home security mistakes by keeping your doors and windows locked, using strong passwords, and not posting your vacation plans on social media. |
| There are many affordable and effective ways to secure your home, even on a tight budget. |
These tips will help keep you safe:
Meet Your Neighbors
Meet your neighbors before you move in.
Get to know their schedules and kids’ activities, so that when the time comes for you to need help, they’ll be able to provide it without hesitation.
Know what pets are in the area. If a dog is being walked regularly by its owner on Mondays between 7:30 and 8 p.m., then this could be useful information if someone breaks into your home while they’re outside with their pooch!
Become familiar with all of the vehicles parked nearby so that if one drives up unexpectedly while you’re at home alone (or not), it doesn’t feel like an intruder has come knocking on your door–it’s just another neighbor taking out his trash at 6:15 p.m., like always!
Install A Security System
A security system is one of the best ways to protect your home and family, especially if you’re a first-time homeowner.
It’s easy to install, and it can be monitored remotely so that you know exactly what’s happening at all times–even when you’re not there. A good security system will provide peace of mind for both you and your family members who live in the house with you.
Home security is a top priority for every homeowner, and there are many simple measures one can take to secure their home from burglars. From using smart locks to installing motion sensor lights, our article on 10 Home Security Tips You Need to Know Now covers everything you need to know to make your home more secure.
Change All The Locks
The first thing you should do is change all the locks. This sounds like an obvious step, but it’s important to have a key for every lock on your property.
If you’re renting, this might mean getting a new set of keys from your landlord or management company (and make sure they know where to find them).
If you own a home and don’t want to pay for new hardware, then consider installing something like a Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt–it gives you access via smartphone or tablet when paired with an app ($230).
Once those are in place, make sure that everyone who has access knows where all their keys are located so they don’t accidentally lock themselves out!
Recommended Lock Brands
| Brand | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medeco | Maxum Deadbolt | A high-security lock that features a unique key design, hardened steel construction, and patented anti-pick technology. |
| Schlage | B60N Deadbolt | A reliable lock that features a strong steel construction, adjustable latch, and easy installation process. |
| Kwikset | SmartCode 914 Smart Lock | A smart lock that allows keyless entry, remote access, and customizable user codes to fit your security needs. |
Note: When changing your locks, make sure to choose a brand that provides high-quality security features and fits your specific needs.
Use Smart Home Automation Technology
Smart home automation technology is a great way to monitor your home from afar, and it can help you control your lights, thermostat and other devices. It’s also one of the best ways to make sure that you don’t have any intruders in your house when you’re not there.
Smart home security cameras are especially useful because they’re so easy to set up–just download an app onto your phone or tablet (be sure it supports the brand of camera), plug in the device and follow instructions on how to get started!
Most models come with free cloud storage too, so all footage will be stored online instead of taking up space on an SD card inside each individual unit itself.*
A good home security system is an investment that can provide peace of mind to you and your family. If you’re in the market for a new security system, our article on The Top 15 Home Security Systems for Maximum Protection can help you find the right one based on your needs and budget.
Install A Deadbolt Lock
The deadbolt lock is the most common type of lock used in the US. Deadbolts can be installed on the inside or outside of a door, but it’s generally recommended that you install them on the inside if you have kids or other people who live at home and could forget to lock up.
This type of lock is more secure than regular locks, but not as secure as other types of locks (like keyless entry).
If you want something even more secure than this, consider installing an electronic keypad doorbell kit like Ring or Nest Hello.
Recommended Deadbolt Locks
| Brand | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Yale | Assure Lock Deadbolt | A keyless option that offers smart home integration, touch screen keypad, and tamper-proof design to keep intruders out. |
| Schlage | B60N Deadbolt | A durable lock that features a reinforced steel construction, pick-resistant design, and adjustable latch to fit any standard door. |
| Kwikset | 991 Juno Smart Lock | A smart lock that provides keyless entry, remote control, and customizable user codes to allow guests and family members to enter your home. |
Note: When shopping for deadbolt locks, make sure to choose one that fits your door and meets ANSI Grade 1 or 2 standards for security.
Call In An Inspector
If you’re buying a home, call in an inspector. If you live in a house and haven’t had one inspected in years, call in an inspector.
If there’s any major repair work coming up (say, replacing the roof), call in an inspector before doing it yourself or hiring someone else to do it for you–you’ll be glad that you did!
Get To Know Your Home Inspector
When you hire a home inspector, it’s important to get to know him or her. You are trusting this person with not only your money but also the security of your family and home. Ask your real estate agent who he or she recommends and why.
Then, ask if the inspector is licensed and insured; this will help ensure that he or she is qualified for the job at hand. Also ask about their background in construction–if they were previously an electrician or plumber (or both), then they’ll likely bring more expertise than someone who has never worked on houses before!
Finally, ask how many homes like yours they’ve inspected before–the more experience they have inspecting similar properties means less chance of missing something important during inspection time!
Even the most security-conscious homeowners can make mistakes that leave their homes vulnerable to intruders. Our article on The Most Common Home Security Mistakes to Avoid highlights some common mistakes and provides tips on how to avoid them.
Check The House Regularly
When you’re not around, it’s important to know that your home is being cared for. You can do this by checking in with the people who live there or with a contractor who comes by regularly (if there are issues, they will let you know).
When you do show up at home, make sure to check for broken windows or doors, water damage and fire hazards–and signs of unauthorized entry. Check for signs of animal infestation too!
Get New Window Stickers, If Necessary
If you haven’t already, consider getting window stickers for your house. These are one of the easiest ways to keep track of who’s coming and going, especially if you have kids or roommates who may not be as diligent about letting you know when they’re leaving and returning.
Window stickers can also help identify intruders by allowing homeowners to see if strangers have entered their homes while they’re away.
And finally, they provide peace of mind by allowing homeowners to see if their loved ones are safe at all times without having to call them every few hours–a great tool for parents who want their children monitored but don’t want them feeling like they’re being watched all day long!
Recommended Window Stickers
| Brand | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brinks | Security Decal Stickers | Sturdy vinyl decals that warn potential intruders that your home is protected by a professional security system. |
| Ring | Alarm Window Decals | Waterproof decals that display the Ring logo and alert burglars that your home is monitored by smart security devices. |
| SimpliSafe | Security Stickers | Adhesive stickers that let burglars know your home is protected by a SimpliSafe security system, which can deter intruders. |
Note: When shopping for window stickers, make sure to choose ones that are specific to your security system and include up-to-date information.
Block Prying Eyes With Window Treatments
While you’re at it, install window blinds and curtains to block prying eyes. You can also install a screen door if you have a patio or deck in your home.
Add drapes or shades to the windows that face the street if they don’t already have them (or if you want to replace those old ones).
Finally, consider installing window film on all of your windows to prevent people from looking into them from outside–a good choice if there’s a lot of traffic on your street and/or if you live in an apartment building.
With so many home security systems on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Our article on How to Choose the Best Home Security System for Your Needs offers valuable insights on factors to consider when selecting a security system that meets your requirements.
Check Out Your Basement And Garage Doors For Security Vulnerabilities
- Check the locks on your basement and garage doors. If they’re broken, it’s likely people have been able to get inside.
- Look at the hinges of your home’s exterior doors; if they’re damaged or missing, it could mean an intruder has already forced their way in.
- Examine windows for signs of forced entry, such as marks from prying tools or broken glass (if it hasn’t already been replaced).
- Look at gaps between doors and frames–if there are any big gaps between them, this could be an indication that someone has tried unsuccessfully to break through your door before giving up and moving on to another house nearby with an easier entrance point like a window or storm door that doesn’t require so much effort to break through successfully!
Conclusion
If you’re looking to protect your home and family, these tips will help. They are simple, affordable ways to make sure that no one can enter your property without permission. The best part is that most of them can be done in just a few minutes or hours!
Further Reading
Military Home Search: Home Security Guide – A comprehensive guide that provides tips on how to secure your home and safeguard your family.
Safewise: 10 Simple Ways to Secure Your New Home – A blog post that offers practical and easy-to-implement tips to improve your home security.
Security.org: Home Security Systems – A resource that compares and reviews home security systems to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a system.
FAQs
What are some affordable home security solutions?
There are several cost-effective measures you can take to improve your home security, such as installing deadbolts, motion sensor lights, and security cameras, and using smart locks.
How do I choose the right home security system for my needs?
When selecting a home security system, consider factors such as cost, monitoring services, installation requirements, and smart home integration.
Are DIY home security systems reliable?
DIY home security systems can be effective if they are installed and maintained correctly. However, it’s important to note that professional monitoring services are not included with DIY systems.
How can I avoid false alarms with my home security system?
To avoid false alarms, make sure that your system is installed and maintained correctly. Also, limit the number of people who have access to your system’s code and ensure that all sensors are clean and properly aligned.
Is it worth investing in a home security system if I live in a safe neighborhood?
Even if you live in a safe neighborhood, investing in a home security system can provide peace of mind and deter potential burglars from targeting your home.
Hi there! I’m Hellen James and I’m a writer and editor with a passion for home technology. I’ve been working in this field for over 10 years, so I know what it’s like to be a part of the growing field of smart home technology. I’ve written about everything from how to choose the right smart thermostat to what the best smart doorbell is for your needs.
