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Learn effective summer home security tips to protect your property while traveling, from simple habits to the latest smart technology.
Empty homes don’t go unnoticed – and as travel plans pick up this season, a few simple moves can reduce risk and add home security while you’re away. With the right mix of everyday habits, subtle automation and smart technology, you can step out knowing everything at home still looks and functions as it should.
Make Your Home Look Lived-In While Traveling
One of the easiest ways to protect your home while traveling is to keep it visually active. Start outside with motion-activated fixtures, solar lighting and timers that turn lights on at dusk to help eliminate dark areas and create natural movement around your property. Inside, small adjustments go a long way. Smart plugs can power lamps, TVs or radios at different times throughout the day. Smart thermostats can mirror typical energy use, while automated blinds open in the morning and close at night. Together, these subtle shifts create a steady, familiar presence from the outside – without requiring constant attention.
Don’t Overlook the Garage and Entry Points in Home Security
Garages and secondary entrances are often the weakest links in home security. If you use a garage door opener, remove the remote from your vehicle or switch to full app-based control while you’re away. You can also secure or shield the emergency release mechanism to prevent tampering from the outside. Additionally, sliding doors and back entrances can be reinforced with a security bar or secondary lock and ground-floor windows can be fortified with added hardware or pins. Small reinforcements can make a meaningful difference in securing your home.
Upgrade With Smart Home Security Technology
Modern home security systems offer real-time visibility and control from anywhere. Smart cameras let you check live feeds, receive motion alerts, and activate night vision, wide-angle views and two-way audio directly from your phone. Video doorbells extend that visibility to your front entry. You can see who approaches, speak to visitors and monitor deliveries even if you’re across the country. And smart locks allow you to secure doors remotely and assign temporary access codes to trusted guests. Additionally, home security systems like SimpliSafe® provide comprehensive coverage with professional monitoring. Even adding one or two of these tools can noticeably strengthen your home security while you are away.
Strong summer home security comes down to preparation, awareness and using the tools available. When everything is in place, you can reduce risk and enjoy your time away without second-guessing what’s happening at home.
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About the Author – Michelle Elliott
With over 20 years of experience navigating the fast-paced Silicon Valley market, I provide a strategic, results-driven approach to residential real estate. My career is built on a foundation of deep local expertise and a relentless commitment to my clients’ success, resulting in over $235 million in lifetime sales volume and a consistent ranking in the top 3% of agents in Santa Clara County and top 2% at Coldwell Banker. My expertise has been featured on KTVU Fox 2, Real Producers and the Willow Glen Resident. She is also the co-host of the San Jose Podcast “Say What You Want About Real Estate”
A Hyper-Local Expert with Global Reach
I specialize in San Jose, in the neighborhoods of Willow Glen (95125 & 95124) Cambrian Park and Almaden, Downtown San Jose/Japantown (95112) markets. As a certified Luxury Property Specialist with Coldwell Banker Realty, I combine high-end marketing strategies with granular neighborhood knowledge to help my clients achieve premium results.
The “Tiger” at the Negotiating Table
My clients have characterized me as a “tiger” at the negotiating table who remains “sweet and patient” with my clients throughout the process. I pride myself on being a fierce advocate for my buyers and sellers, ensuring the best possible terms in every transaction, and I strive to be the best Realtor in 95125! This balance, drive, and tenacity have earned me consistent 5-star ratings across Google, Zillow, Realtor.com, and Yelp.
Michelle Elliott
Michelle@michelleelliottrealtor.com
1712 Meridian Ave, Ste C, San Jose, CA
DRE 01777533
