Summer is the best time for family trips, short breaks, and road trips. While you enjoy the sunshine at your vacation spot, don't forget about your home. Whether you're away for a couple of days or several weeks, taking a few easy steps can ease your mind and protect your property.

Homeowners in Livingston County know how important it is to keep their houses safe and well-maintained during Michigan's busy travel time. Our real estate agents have put together these key tips to help you safeguard your home when you travel in the summer.

1. Give Your Home a Lived-In Look

A home that seems empty is a burglar's dream. Before you leave town, take action to create the illusion that someone's still around:

• Set up light timers in several rooms to switch on and off at different times.
• Get a neighbor or friend to sometimes park in your driveway and collect your mail or packages.
• Leave blinds or curtains open so the house doesn't look shut up for a long time.

If you plan to be away for over a week, think about getting a house sitter or trusted neighbor to check in often. They can let you or the police know if something seems wrong.

2. Lock Down All Entry Points

Before you go, check all around your house:

• Lock every door and window, even those upstairs or in hidden spots.
• Remember to secure garage doors, ways into the basement, and openings for pets.
• If you have an alarm system, turn it on and ensure the settings are correct before you leave.

You can boost your security with smart locks, lights that sense movement, or a doorbell with a camera, which you can keep an eye on from anywhere.

3. Pause Your Mail

A mailbox that's full shows nobody's home. To avoid this:

• Put your mail on hold with the U.S. Postal Service.
• Stop or redirect your newspaper deliveries.
• Get a neighbor to pick up any flyers or packages that might end up at your door.

Making your house look occupied plays a big role in keeping burglars away.

4. Monitor Your Home with Smart Tech

Modern smart home gadgets allow you to keep an eye on your house while you're not there. Here are some options to think about:

• Smart cameras and doorbells give you a way to watch live video on your phone.
• Smart thermostats let you adjust the temperature from afar and keep an eye on energy usage.
• Leak detectors and smart smoke alarms can warn you about possible problems like floods or fires.

These technologies don't just boost security; they also make life easier and help reduce energy costs.

5. Unplug and Get Ready for Emergencies

Cut down on fire risks and save energy by unplugging electronics you don't need, like TVs, computers, and kitchen gadgets. Also, take a few minutes to:

• Make sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work.
• Shut off the main water supply if you plan to be away for a long time if weather forecasts predict storms.
• Fasten outdoor furniture or objects that might get damaged or pose risks in strong winds.

The weather in Livingston County can change, so it's smart to take actions that safeguard your property from more than just burglary.

6. Inform Someone About Your Absence

Consider telling a trusted friend or neighbor about your vacation plans. Share your contact details and the names of anyone who might visit your house (like a house sitter or gardener). If you're okay with it, you can even let the local police know you'll be away—in some areas, they might offer to check on your house while you're gone.

Are You Set to Travel Without Worries?

Keeping your home safe during summer trips doesn't need to be hard. With good planning and the right gadgets, you can kick back and enjoy your vacation, knowing your house is protected.

Whether you're thinking about moving, selling, or just want to make your Livingston County home safer throughout the year, our real estate agents are ready to lend a hand. Get in touch with us today to get advice on clever home improvements, security features in neighborhoods, and houses with the top safety options in the area.