A vacant home can be a great investment, but not putting it to use soon is dangerous. The lack of use can bring plagues or allow damage to spread throughout the property. Your house could also be subject to theft or vandalism. Discover why you shouldn’t leave your house vacant and some uses you can put it to.
A Vacant House Is A Vulnerable House
Your home is your greatest investment. You’re essentially throwing money down the drain if you’re not using it. In addition, a vacant house can be a great opportunity for thieves and vandals. They see an easy target that no one uses and take advantage of that. To protect your home, you need to take some security measures such as:
Hire A Security Company
A security company will be able to monitor your home and provide a physical presence that will act as a deterrent for criminals. There are many security plans available, so you can work to get the most fitting one. Since the house is vacant, you’ll need some extra protection to deter vandalism or theft.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras will help you keep an eye on your property even when you’re not there. You can also use them as evidence if something does happen.
Keep The Property Well-Lit
A well-lit property is less likely to be targeted by criminals. You can install motion-sensor lights that will turn on when someone comes close to your home. Lights can also provide an aesthetic element and show that the house is being looked after by its owner.
Trim The Bushes Around The House
Trimming the bushes around your home will remove hiding spots for criminals. An unkempt yard is a visual sign that there’s no one present or looking out for the property. If your yard is in good shape, you can also raise your property’s curb appeal and home value.
Speak With Your Neighbors
Your neighbors can watch your property and report anything suspicious to the police. These are just a few things you can do to secure your vacant home. Taking these precautions will give you peace of mind knowing that your investment is safe.
Consider Renting It Out (pros vs. cons)
Renting out your property can be a great way to generate income. It can also help offset the costs of maintaining the property. However, there are some downsides that you should consider before making this decision. Renting a house can provide a secondary income.
However, there are some negatives to consider as well. When renting out, you are responsible for maintaining the property, finding and screening tenants, and dealing with any issues. You also lose some privacy since you now have strangers living in your home.
Get Routine Inspections For Pests And Hazardous Substances
When a house is unoccupied, it’s more likely to be infested with pests. This is because there’s no one there to keep an eye on things and take care of the problem. Pests can cause damage to your property and pose a health hazard. That’s why it’s important to get routine inspections for pests.
Additionally, hazardous substances can build up in an unoccupied house. These substances can include mold, asbestos, and lead paint. If these substances are not removed, they can pose a health risk to future occupants
Don’t Let Your House Fall Into Disrepair
When a house sits empty, it’s more likely to fall into disrepair. This is because there’s no one there to take care of it regularly. The first thing that will start to deteriorate is the roof. This is because the roof is constantly exposed to the elements. If you don’t take care of it, it will start to leak, and you’ll have to replace it eventually. The same goes for windows and doors.
If you’re not using your house, you should consider selling it. Selling your house is a great way to get rid of it and make some money simultaneously. If you need to sell your house fast, it’s best to sell it. This way, you don’t need to waste time and money doing repairs.
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This article was written by guest author Andrea Needham. Visit her site at www.eldersday.org