New to Houston? A Home Security Checklist for First-Time Buyers

Home Security Checklist

Houston is a vibrant, family-friendly city with rich cultural influences and friendly locals. But like any city, it's not immune to crime. So, if you're planning to move to America's fourth-largest city, it's wise to make sure your new home is adequately protected. This checklist is designed for first-time homebuyers to help ensure they're taking the right precautions and selecting the best home security system for their needs.

1. Compare Security System Features and Prices

As you begin to research home security systems, you might be surprised by the sheer volume of choices available to you. The best approach is to compare features and prices to make sure you get the right setup for your needs. Here are some of the features you'll want to consider:

• Monitored vs. unmonitored features
• Wired vs. wireless security systems
• DIY vs. professionally installed systems
• Indoor vs. outdoor cameras
• Integration with relevant smart home devices
• Motion detection features

When you're analyzing pricing, be sure to compare systems that have similar features so you can get the best value for your budget. Also, keep in mind that professionally installed systems may cost more initially, but they are often more reliable and offer higher-quality images and services.

2. Secure All Entry Points

For a first-time home buyer in Houston, home security is probably the first thing you think about. But keeping your home safe is more than just installing some home security cameras and calling it a day. You should also consider some simple modifications to your house that will help make it a safer place to live.

The entry points to your home are typically viewed as the weakest areas by ill-intentioned individuals. That's why it's so important to secure and strengthen them. For example, consider changing out low-quality locks for high-quality deadbolts on your exterior doors. Make sure your windows are securely locked, and use blinds or drapes to keep people from seeing what's inside. For that modern Houston touch, you might even consider adding smart door locks when you install your new security system.

3. Get to Know Your Neighbors

When you move to a new area, getting to know your neighbors is about more than just making friends. It can also help you build a support system of people who will reach out if they see anything or anyone suspicious. Sometimes, your neighbors might even be able to react faster than law enforcement can to an alarm system.

If your new Houston community has a neighborhood watch, consider joining it and becoming actively involved. If there isn't one already, think about helping to get one started. Neighborhoods with active watch programs tend to be much safer and less attractive to criminals.

4. Trim Bushes and Shrubs Near Windows and Doors

After you've selected and installed a new security system, like one of the many home automation systems in Houston, it's time to take a look at the exterior of your house. Do you have large shrubs or bushes obscuring doors and windows? If so, they could give criminals places to hide while trying to break into your house.

It's best to keep shrubs and bushes trimmed and short, especially when they're near your home's entry points. This takes away potential hiding areas, making your home a less enticing target for criminals. Trimming your bushes and shrubs also has the added benefit of keeping your yard looking neat and well-maintained.

5. Install Security Lighting

Criminals prefer to operate under the cover of darkness, which is why security lighting can be such a powerful deterrent. While you are working with a company to install an alarm system in Houston, it's smart to also think about adding security lighting. Motion-detection lighting is designed to quickly startle potential intruders and send them running.

Many home security companies offer lighting packages that come with their home alarm systems. You'll find options like:

• Motion-activated lights
• Floodlights
• Lights with scheduling capabilities that can make it seem like you're always home

As you compare different security lighting packages and quotes, make sure to consider the features that matter most to you.

6. Put Up Security Signage

If you have home security cameras or an alarm system, it's smart to let potential intruders know. You should proudly display security signage in a place where it's visible to passersby, such as near windows or your exterior doors.

Research shows that visible security signs can deter criminals from choosing your home. However, it's important to remember that seasoned criminals can spot a fake sign. Make sure your signage is for a legitimate security company and that you actually have a security system installed. Otherwise, you could unintentionally make yourself more of a target.

Conclusion

You deserve to feel secure and comfortable in your new home. Taking the time to research and schedule a professional home security installation in Houston is a smart investment in your peace of mind. But remember, a comprehensive approach is even better. By following the simple steps on this Houston home security checklist, you'll be taking proactive measures, from trimming your bushes to putting up security signs, to make your new home even safer.