Vacant But Not Vulnerable: How to Secure Your Home During the Sale
July 15th, 2025 by tisnerWhile a vacant home is on the market, even in a safe neighborhood, it is crucial to secure it. Savvy criminals can spot an empty house, and you do not want your property compromised, especially when potential buyers are viewing the property. Follow these tips to keep your property safe:
- Always ensure all exterior doors and windows are locked. Intruders often seek easy access and prefer not to draw attention by smashing windows or making noise.
- If you do not already, have motion sensor floodlights installed around the perimeter of your home. This will help deter anyone who is creeping around after dark.
- Outdoor light fixtures and even your HVAC unit are surprisingly common targets for theft. Install motion-detection lighting and secure your HVAC unit’s circuit box with a lock. Consider adding fencing or a security cage for extra protection.
- Talk to your Realtor® about using a keyless lockbox on your entry. This allows agents access and provides a record of who entered your home and when.
- Contact your homeowners insurance agent if the home is empty for more than 30 days; you want to be sure that the property is covered while vacant.
- Keep your landscaping well-maintained to avoid signaling the home is vacant. Have a reputable landscaper or pay a former neighbor to handle it.
- Ask a trusted relative, neighbor, or a reputable house-sitter to regularly check on your home if you have moved too far away. For added presence, see if a neighbor is willing to park their vehicle in your driveway.
- Many affordable wireless home security systems do not require monthly fees. Look for options with smartphone apps that allow you to self-monitor your home and alert contacts if there is an issue.
Keeping the electricity and Wi-Fi connected to a vacant home is a small cost compared to the peace of mind and protection it offers. The expense of utilities is far less than potential repair costs for damage or replacing stolen items. Protect your investment by safeguarding your vacant property.
Access Teri’s one-stop Orlando FL home search website.
Teri Isner is the team leader of Orlando Avenue Top Team and has been a Realtor for over 24 years. Teri has distinguished herself as a leader in the Orlando FL real estate market. Teri assists buyers looking for Orlando FL real estate for sale and aggressively markets Orlando FL homes for sale.
You deserve professional real estate service! You obtain the best results with Teri Isner plus you benefit from her marketing skills, experience and ability to network with other REALTORS®. Your job gets done pleasantly and efficiently. You are able to make important decisions easily with fast, accurate information from Teri. The Orlando Avenue Top Team handles the details and follow-up that are important to the success of your transaction.