Leaving a house empty before selling it can create big problems. Unattended homes often attract unwanted visitors or suffer from neglect. Thieves, vandals, and even the weather can cause damage that hurts your chances of a smooth sale.
These risks can make selling your home harder and more expensive. If break-ins or damage happen, you might face lower offers or legal trouble. Many sellers overlook these dangers until it is too late.
The best way to secure a vacant house before selling is to take smart steps to protect it from harm. This means checking locks, maintaining the yard, and using security tools.
Simple actions can keep your property safe and ready for buyers. This blog will show you easy ways to keep your empty house protected until it sells.
Key Takeaways
- Install high-quality deadbolts, reinforced locks, and security cameras on all entry points, including doors, windows, and outbuildings.
- Set up motion-activated exterior lighting and use timers or smart systems for interior lights to mimic occupancy.
- Remove all valuables and important documents, storing them in a secure off-site location or a fireproof safe.
- Notify local police, trusted neighbors, and your insurance provider about the vacancy for added patrols and appropriate coverage.
- Conduct regular walkthroughs to inspect for damage, leaks, or signs of forced entry, promptly addressing any issues found.
Assess the Security Risks of Your Property
To protect a vacant house, you must first check its security risks. A detailed inspection helps find weak spots inside and outside. If you skip this step, your property may stay exposed.
Walk around the property and look for problems like broken fences or dark areas. Overgrown plants or loose windows also make the house less secure. Vacant homes often attract thieves if these issues are easy to see. Consulting with a real estate agent can also help you identify less obvious vulnerabilities that might affect your home’s appeal to buyers.
Make a note of every risk and possible entry point for intruders. If you have hidden spare keys or old alarms, list them too. Careful documentation will help you fix these weak spots and improve safety.
If you are planning to sell the house soon, understanding its security risks is especially important because potential buyers and cash home buyers will notice signs of neglect or vulnerability.
Install Quality Deadbolts and Secure All Entry Points
Install quality deadbolts and secure all entry points for better home security. Use strong, modern deadbolts on every outside door. Reinforce doors to make them harder to break.
Check the garage and basement doors too. Replace any old locks with new ANSI Grade 1 deadbolts. If a door seems weak, fix or replace it right away. Making sure all entry points are secure helps ensure a clear title and prevents potential issues during the selling process.
Install heavy-duty strike plates with long screws. Make sure all door hinges are inside and firmly attached. If these steps are taken, your house will be safer and look well cared for.
Homes with visible security features attract more buyers. Buyers notice strong locks and sturdy doors. Secure entry points show that a property is maintained and protected.
In Florida, ensuring your property is secure is especially important if you are handling inherited properties, as these homes may be vacant during the probate or sale process.
Upgrade or Reinforce Windows and Sliding Doors
To keep your vacant house secure, check all windows and sliding doors for weak spots. Reinforce them to prevent easy break-ins. Secure entries make your property less attractive to thieves.
Window security film adds a protective layer and makes glass harder to break. Reinforced glass is a good option if your budget allows it. Replace old window locks with strong, modern versions. It’s also important to understand short-term vs. long-term capital gains if you plan to sell soon after upgrading your property.
Sliding doors need extra attention because they are common entry points. A security bar or rod in the track can stop forced opening. Door reinforcement kits help strengthen frames and protect against prying.
If you improve these security features, your house becomes safer and more appealing to buyers. Visible safety upgrades may increase property value. You also reduce the risk of loss while the house is vacant.
Making your property more appealing to cash buyers through security upgrades can broaden your pool of potential buyers and help you sell more quickly.
Invest in a Security System or Cameras
A security system or cameras help protect a vacant house. These devices deter intruders and let you watch your property from anywhere. If you install smart security, you can get alerts and see live footage on your phone.
Modern cameras record video and save it online for later viewing. This can give you important evidence if something happens. Some systems let you cover all main entry points. Installing security measures can also help address safety and health concerns that often affect vacant or distressed properties.
Buyers often like homes with smart security already set up. If your house has these features, it can be more attractive in the market. A security system shows you care for the property and can increase its value.
Adding security features is also a smart part of preparing your house for sale, as it helps create a safer and more appealing environment for potential buyers.
Set Up Motion-Activated Exterior Lighting
Motion-activated exterior lighting helps protect a vacant house by discouraging trespassers. Lights that turn on with movement can alert neighbors to activity. If you want extra security, you should install these lights around your property. When combined with proactive tenant management, this simple upgrade can significantly enhance the overall safety and appeal of your investment property.
You should place lights at all doors, walkways, and dark spots. Bright lights surprise intruders and make your home less of a target. Proper lighting may lower the risk of break-ins.
The table below gives ideas on where to put each type of light:
| Lighting Spot | Recommended Fixture | Coverage Area |
|---|---|---|
| Front Door | LED Motion Floodlight | Entryway & Porch |
| Garage/Driveway | Dual-Head Motion Light | Vehicles, Sidewalk |
| Backyard | Solar Motion Light | Patio, Rear Fence |
Motion lighting can also add value to your home. Buyers may feel safer if the property is well lit. If you are selling, this upgrade could give you peace of mind.
If your property has foundation issues, proper lighting can help highlight other attractive features and create a more balanced perception for potential buyers.
Maintain the Yard and Exterior Appearance
Maintaining the yard and exterior keeps your vacant house looking cared for. A tidy yard helps prevent unwanted attention and deters trespassers. Regular upkeep also makes your home more attractive to buyers. Sellers should keep in mind that curb appeal improvements can also factor into the overall market value of the home.
Mow the grass, trim shrubs, and clear leaves often. If you are unable to do this, consider hiring a lawn service. Clean walkways and add fresh mulch for better curb appeal.
Plant low-maintenance shrubs or use drought-resistant plants if you want less work. Check for peeling paint, broken gutters, or damaged fences. Fix any problems quickly to protect your investment. Improving your home’s exterior is a key way to boost your curb appeal and create a positive impression for potential buyers.
Remove Valuables and Personal Items
Don’t leave anything behind that could attract thieves or compromise your privacy. You should remove important documents, clear out electronics, and secure jewelry in an off-site safe deposit box. Taking these steps greatly reduces risk and protects your assets while the house sits empty.
If your property has experienced termite damage, it’s also wise to address this issue before selling, as visible damage can deter potential buyers and complicate the sales process. Additionally, proactively address any liens or encumbrances on the property before selling to instill confidence in potential buyers and expedite the sales process.
Safeguard Important Documents
To keep important documents safe in a vacant house, remove them before leaving. Passports, financial papers, and insurance policies should not stay behind. These are often targets for burglars.
Store documents in a locked fireproof safe or a bank safety deposit box. If you do this, your identity and information stay secure. Avoid hiding papers in common spots like drawers or filing cabinets.
If documents are lost or stolen, replacing them can cause delays. Misplaced home insurance papers can also make claims harder if there is a break-in. Protecting your documents lowers risks and makes your home safer for buyers.
Clear Out Electronics
You should remove all electronics from a house before leaving it empty. Thieves often target laptops, tablets, and smart devices. If these items stay, your security could be at risk.
Older gadgets can also attract unwanted attention. Smart home devices should be taken with you or reset to factory settings. This step prevents others from accessing your network.
Removing electronics protects your belongings and shows you care about security. If buyers see a safe home, they may feel more interested. Clearing electronics helps make the selling process smoother and safer.
Store Jewelry Securely
Store jewelry and other valuables in a secure place before leaving your home vacant. Thieves often target drawers and closets, so avoid using them. If possible, remove expensive items from the house entirely.
A safe is a strong choice for keeping valuables secure. Real estate showings bring many people into your home. If you must leave valuables, make sure they are locked away.
The table below shows different storage options and their security levels:
| Storage Option | Security Level |
|---|---|
| Bank Safety Deposit | Highest |
| Home Safe | High |
| Friend/Family Home | Moderate |
| Hidden in House | Low |
| Left in Plain Sight | None |
Choosing a secure storage method helps protect your valuables and gives you peace of mind.
Notify Local Police and Trusted Neighbors
You should notify local police and trusted neighbors if your house will be vacant. Police departments often offer extra patrols for empty homes. This can help protect your property.
Neighbors can watch for unusual activity and collect your mail. If they see something suspicious, they can contact you or the police. A trusted neighbor is a valuable ally.
Consider joining a neighborhood watch group if one exists. Community members can share information to help keep each other safe. If you build a support network, you lower the risk of break-ins.
With increased housing market activity expected in the spring and summer, securing your home is especially important to prevent any issues before listing it for sale.
Use Timers for Interior Lights
Set timers for interior lights if you want your vacant home to appear lived in. Timed lights are a simple way to deter break-ins. They can make it look like someone is home.
Place timers in key rooms, such as the living room, hallways, and bedrooms. Program them to turn lights on and off at different times. This can copy normal daily routines.
You should invest in programmable or smart timers. These timers let you change lighting schedules even when you are away. Unpredictable lighting patterns help your home blend in with others.
If you use smart lighting, you can lower the risk of burglary. This simple step can protect your property and give you peace of mind. Consider timers as a basic part of your security plan.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain the Property
You should inspect and maintain your vacant property regularly. Routine checks help you spot problems early and keep the home safe. If you neglect maintenance, the property may attract unwanted attention.
Walk through the house every week to look for damage or leaks. Examine doors and windows for signs of forced entry. Check that all locks work properly. Inspect your vacant home weekly for damage, leaks, or signs of break-ins, and make sure all locks are secure.
Keep the yard and exterior tidy. If grass grows too long or shrubs look messy, people may guess the home is empty. Remove mail, sweep walkways, and take down old decorations right away.
Well-maintained homes attract more buyers and sell faster. Regular care can prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs. If you stay proactive, you protect your investment.
Secure the Garage and Outbuildings
Garages and outbuildings need strong security just like your main house. These areas are easy targets if left unprotected. If you secure them, you reduce the risk of break-ins.
You should use heavy-duty locks on garage doors. Install motion-sensor lights to scare off intruders at night. If you add alarm sensors, this increases garage safety.
Windows in sheds should have locks or security bars. All hinges and panels need regular checks for weakness. If you find damage, fix it right away.
Here is a simple guide for protecting outbuildings:
| Area | Security Measure | Market Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Garage Door | Heavy-duty deadbolt | Offers high value for the cost |
| Shed Windows | Security bars/locks | Stops quick theft attempts |
| Side Entrances | Motion lights | Deters nighttime break-ins |
| Storage Units | Alarm sensors | Appeals to safety-focused buyers |
| Hinges/Panels | Reinforcement plates | Blocks easy forced entry |
Turn Off Unnecessary Utilities Safely
Turning off utilities you do not need is important for a vacant home. This reduces risks like fire, leaks, or damage. It also makes your property safer and more appealing to buyers. Shutting off unused utilities in a vacant home lowers risks and keeps your property safer and more attractive to potential buyers.
Identify which utilities you can disconnect, such as gas, water, and electricity. Contact your utility providers and follow their instructions for safe disconnection. This helps you avoid penalties or problems with your service.
Always turn off circuit breakers before handling electrical devices. If you stop gas service, you should shut off the main valve. Label all switches and shut-off points for easy identification during inspections.
Proper utility management shows your home is well cared for. It can also help with insurance and make selling easier. If you follow these steps, your property will be safer and ready for new owners.
Protect Against Water Damage and Pests
Water damage and pests can cause serious problems if not managed. Empty houses are at higher risk for both issues. You can prevent these problems with regular checks and simple actions.
Inspect your home for leaks, blocked gutters, or pooled water. Fix these problems to avoid mold and damage to your house. Seal basement cracks and check that water drains away from the foundation.
If you have a sump pump, test it before leaving for any extended time. Sump pumps should work well to prevent flooding. Replace or repair faulty pumps as needed.
To keep pests away, remove all food and trash from your home. Seal entry points around windows, doors, and walls. Trim plants that touch the house to limit pest access.
Set traps if you expect rodents or insects. You could also hire a pest control service for added protection. These steps will help keep your property safe and ready for sale.
Update Insurance Coverage for a Vacant Home
Insurance coverage often changes if your home is vacant. Standard policies may not protect you if the house is empty for long. You should check your policy before leaving the house unoccupied.
Contact your insurance company to tell them your home will be vacant. If your provider offers special coverage for empty homes, ask about your options. Always get any changes in writing to be sure you are covered.
Read your policy to see what is not covered when your home is empty. If you find gaps, you may want extra coverage. Consider buying insurance for risks like theft, vandalism, or fire if your policy does not protect against these.
Conclusion
If you secure your vacant house before selling, you protect your property and make it more appealing to buyers. A well-secured house can prevent break-ins, vandalism, and damage. These steps can help you avoid setbacks or lost value during the selling process.
If you want a quick and hassle-free sale, we buy houses for cash in any condition. This option can save you time and reduce stress. Greg Buys Houses is ready to give you a fair offer.
If you are ready to sell your vacant house, contact us today. We can provide a fast, secure, and easy solution. Let Greg Buys Houses help you move forward with confidence.
