Buying your first home is a process filled with challenges, uncertainty and excitement. One aspect you should never overlook is the security features of your new residence.
Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate, says as a first-time buyer there will be many things you need to be cognisant of, and one of those is undoubtedly security.
He says you can improve your family’s safety by implementing and following these guidelines for a safer, more secure home:
1. Choose a good location
While many of the other guidelines can be implemented post-sale, ideally you would need to select a home in a decent location that has a good track record in terms of safety. Speak to your agent, but also look at finding some statistics on the area that will provide some insight on the safety of the area. Look at the rise or decline in home robberies, crimes in the area and even the street itself. Getting some face-to-face advice with people living in the area would also be beneficial to you.
2. Audit the home’s current security
One of the best courses of action to take in order to get an overview of the home you are about to call your own, is to do an audit of the home’s current security. Think of it as a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis of sorts.
3. Install a security system of your own
Irrespective of the home’s current security system, having one of your own installed could make all the difference in your life and the lives of your family. Look at a few options for security service providers and armed response providers and find out what would suit your budget, while at the same time offering you the best service possible. Another pro tip would be to speak to your agent about service providers who they feel would be able to assist you in making the smartest, most financially savvy choice.
4. Look at additional reinforcements you can add on
Having additional reinforcements including security beams, security gates, floodlights, property cameras and adequate perimeter fencing will definitely add to your peace of mind. These add-ons need not cost a fortune, and are easily monitored either from your home or remotely.
Finally
Security for you and your family should be as high a priority as comfort, schools and amenities. Following these guidelines will help you rest assured that you have taken the proper measures to ensure your family’s safety.
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