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Although hope does seem to appear on the horizon, there is no doubt that many things have changed. 

Photo by form PxHere

Including, where most of us want to live these days.

The real estate market took a big nose dive because of the pandemic and monthly rentals keep on getting lower in price. This has affected seasoned home owners and first time buyers planning to leave the nest.

One amazing new change that occurred because of this was people moving into so called ‘rural’ cities. 

Just because housing is more affordable in these areas. Some took things to the next level and went straight for cabin ownership. 

That’s right. Living in the woods in a rustic wooden cabin.

Especially in Northern BC and parts of Vancouver, Canada. 

Same thing in the US (Portland recently) and Europe as well. People who never thought they would live away from the city are now buying full family sized cabins in somewhat isolated places.

That said, contrary to popular belief, cabins are not as ‘old’ or ‘outdated’ as people thought before. Cabins today are a perfect blend of modern technology and 5 star amenities.

In most cases, perhaps a 5 or 10 minute drive away from a full on grocery store and other necessities of life as wel..

If you live in nature, have access to modern facilities and are surrounded by a peaceful environment, would you really miss the city? 

Well to each its own but let’s see what you should look for when purchasing a cabin.

Build History

When it comes to buying a cabin, build history is very important. After all, you want to know which company built it (Could be hand built by the owner as well) and how experienced they are. 

This will help you not only avoid any future construction related mishaps, but a phone call to the builders in case of an issue can be resolved right away too.

The more experienced the builder is, the better off you are going to be. 

They can also tell you more details like what type of wood was used and any other construction materials so you can take care of things and most importantly, maintain things the right way.

Septic Tank

A modern cabin usually comes with a septic tank. For you city slickers, a septic tank takes care of the waste that is created in a washroom or toilet. So make sure before you buy a cabin, it does come with a septic tank. 

You can always just have an outhouse but that won’t be very modern. Especially if you have kids.

Also good rule of thumb, do not flush anything besides regular human waste and toilet paper when connected to septic tank. They are only designed to break down such waste and nothing more. If your septic tank gets messed up, your time at the cabin will really suck. 

Although this seems like common sense, it’s always a good idea to not to flush weird things down the toilet. No matter where you live.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

This is a very important point. If you live in nature, you must be aware of what’s around you. 

What kind of plants, wildlife and seasonal patterns of the area. It’s not like you’re living in an apartment where no matter what happens outside, it won’t effect you.

Well when you live in a cabin, you have to be a tad bit more aware than usual. After all, you are now in nature so you must have respect for what it has to offer.

First and foremost, make sure you are aware of any possible poisonous plants. Most likely, you probably don’t even have them but it’s always best to ask around.

Next thing you know you are eating something that looks like berries but it’s actually some toxic weird substance. Don’t want to be getting into any kind of trouble like that now do you?

So make sure you talk to your local real estate agent about the plants, wildlife and any other rules and regulations that you might be aware of.

Bottom line, living in a cabin just 15 to 20 minutes away from the city is a dream of most people. 

Who doesn’t want a space where they can unwind for a few days and get completely connected with nature?

Have you ever tried cooking in and on a fire stove? It’s pure heaven.

Well now imagine living at a place like that full time.

Exactly . . .

 “All rooms ought to look as if they were lived in, and to have so to say, a friendly welcome ready for the incomer.”

Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash

~ William Morris

Every house tells a story, so we should pay attention to the stories we ought to tell. It is vital to dwell in a healthy and conducive environment for the better functioning of our minds and bodies.

If you are looking to redecorate your house and try out the most satisfying ways to get that coveted personal setting, we have few tips for you.

1. Canvas Prints

The most classic way to amp up a particular zone or wall in your home can be to decorate it with canvas prints. This is a timeless trend that has been followed for ages and will never go out of fashion. And for a more personal vibe to that space, hang on memoirs of all those moments that you would love to cherish. 

Modern-day canvas prints with more than just one photo can instantly change the semantics of the area. The process to acquire one for yourself is very simple. Collages can be made up of a maximum of 9 photos. 

Triptych Canvas Prints are a smart way of displaying a particular picture as parts.  All you need to do is Indicate your choice of going for a collage, wall display, or triptych. Next, upload your selected pictures. Customize from the various filters, editing settings among many other enhancement options. The frames are intricately handcrafted to deliver the best to the consumers. Your perfectly curated artwork will be delivered to your doorstep in ample time. 

2. Greens for the ease

Plants can add so much life to any little corner. They can lend your home warmth and an inviting aura. Lush greens can lighten up your mood and bring serenity and peace. A soothing aesthetic at your home can alleviate stress and make you feel pumped up.  If you plan to get real plants to decorate your home, there are several factors to keep in mind. 

Do first clarify the space proportions, natural sunlight transit, and the limited expanse. Such details will fetch you the right plant for the right place. Your choices should focus on not only majestically appeasing plants but also plants that can cleanse the air around you. An Areca Palm would require very little care and can grow up to a decent height.  

Snake and money plants can easily thrive inside houses. These plants are also said to produce oxygen during the night and absorb harmful toxins respectively. Pick out various plants suiting the needs of specific corners and let the plants roll their magic.

3. Furniture

Furniture works like the skeletal system of your house. Choosing the right one is tricky. You should go for a set of furniture that blends well with the theme of your house. And, they should be long-lasting as well. If you wish to put across a vintage vibe, you should then invest in wooden, antique-type components (dark wood). 

In a bid to radiate a sleek, modern look your choice should be elegant, contemporary pieces (angular, metallic). What also needs to be taken care of is the scalability of each furniture item. 

They should not be forcibly thrust into a place. Space layout of the rooms, breathable space in the house also need to be paid heed to. Smart furniture is currently at the top priority of customers. Investing in an item that eats up less space and helps you organize your stuff. Look out for options that are worth your pocket! 

4. Decor Items

 Might not be noticeable, but small accessories can complement your home. They can have a refreshing influence and impact on the overall look. “Less is more.” – look for quality than quantity. You can buy minimal pieces if you wish to make a subtle impact. As mentioned many times before, space proportions need to be carefully considered as a foundation of your selections. 

Asymmetrical accessories can render a majestic visual appeal. Go for fusion items – mix and match various themes, try vintage with modern. There are endless possibilities. Elements that are of the same theme palette can help you pull together the beauty of the house. 

It is endearing that such details can add character to the house! Combining different textures and patterns can add to the diversity in decor. Hanging mirrors of different shapes and sizes serve the reflecting purpose that aids in adding another dimension to your homes. 

5. Light it up

Every tip or idea stated above is an essential characteristic. But a space devoid of proper lighting can feel gloomy and inhospitable. The perfect lights can set the desired tone or mood of the place. Choosing the right fit can be a complicated task given the spectrum of alternatives available for customers. 

Majestic lights for your walls, ceilings; chandelier lights, LEDs. A professional will suggest to you that there are layers of lighting in a perfectly lit room. Overhead (ambient), task, and accent lighting. Their respective contributions being that of acting as the prime source of light, designated for specific tasks and decorative purposes. Chandeliers and elaborate lamps are ideal examples of accent lighting. Items with a metallic finish are very trendy these days. Some people also prefer a cleaner and wispy orientation for a sought-after look. A smart way can be to pick focal points in the house where different light sources can point to.

 Hope it helped!

Sometime during the past year, the relationship we had with our living area has changed. Now, moving into 2021 it is time for a re-evaluation of how we can live in the available space.

Photo by Ono Kosuki from Pexels

2020 has taught every one of us one thing and that is, the future might be uncertain yet. But, there is one thing you must be sure about and that is, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to last for several years to come. There are two things you need to consider regarding home renovation going into 2021. What do you need at the moment and what investments would you like to make? Here are some considerations.

1. Develop a workstation at home

At the moment several people are working remotely without knowing how long they have to keep working that way. Therefore having a home office or a designated workstation might become indispensable like a bathroom or a kitchen. The home office has become a necessity even with the different businesses and offices opening. Several businesses have made a conscious shift away from office work to a remote work hybrid model. They just require the employees to visit the office a few days of the week. But, sometimes your home may not have sufficient space to build a home office. In such cases, you may consider having sliding closet doors and turning the closet within the guest room into a workstation.

2. Paint

If you do not have any plans of staying at the current residence for more than 5 years, it is recommended that you apply a fresh coat of paint for upgrading the space. Paints are temporary and it also provides an opportunity to provide a personal feel to the home without harming the resale value of the place. It is a budget way of making a big impact. Some brands offer deep saturated and highly pigmented colors that take this to another level. Use lighter colors because they brighten up the room and make it feel larger and full of light. The darker colors allow you to make the space feel cozy.

3. Update the kitchen

Kitchens have been responsible for selling houses and apartments for a while. However, the coronavirus pandemic has placed more significance on the room. Now, you need a kitchen that is both beautiful and functional. The potential buyers will not only look for appearance but they will take into account the functionality as well. Considerations such as storing an excess supply of food and the capability of the kitchen to make several meals in a day will be taken into account. While renovating the kitchen you may add a pantry as well. The storage capability of a kitchen is of paramount importance because everyone wants the kitchen to be able to store additional food these days.

4. Bathrooms

2020 brought in the need to shelter within a place and it also heightened the need for having a clean bathroom and home in general. Hygiene is one of the top considerations especially in the case of high-traffic places such as bathrooms. You need to opt for interiors in the bathrooms that give priority to easy-to-clean surfaces and other antimicrobial fixtures. You will find that most of the 2021 bathroom trends will include this without sacrificing the styling of the bathrooms. You should also fix the instruments working from within the bathroom and carry out the water heater repair for instance. Do not neglect the damage as a result of faulty instruments.

5. Spruce up the outdoor space

It doesn’t matter where you are living, keep in mind that space has become a lot more valuable because of coronavirus. Many times the balconies, backyards, and terraces used by people paled in comparison with the rest of the homes. But, times have changed and the outdoor space is more valuable. Therefore maximizing the appearance and usability of this space is a great way of adding value to the house. If you are looking to sell the house in the near future your real estate agent may ask you to add rain covers and heating to the outer space. Outdoor kitchens may become smart investments. A lot of buyers will value outer space more in the upcoming years due to the freedom they provide from being locked-in.

When your Kansas home has a crawl space underneath it, one thing you need to avoid is ignoring this area.

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

It is still part of your home, and it is actually sometimes considered the heart of the property because what happens in this space can impact what happens in your home. This is why it is so important to ensure that the area is properly looked after and that any damage is repaired professionally by a Kansas City crawl space expert.

It is important to ensure you find the right professional to carry out this type of work, as this will ensure that both the crawl space and your main home are properly protected. While many people will focus on little more than the cost of the work, there are actually various factors that you need to consider before you make your choice. In this article, we will look at four things to check before you hire a crawl space specialist.

Some of the Main Considerations

There are some very important key points that you need to look at before you hire a specialist to deal with damage or issues with the space under your home. Some of these are:

What the Cost Will Be

As mentioned earlier, the cost of the work is something that many people will focus on when choosing a professional for this type of work. Of course, the cost is important as you need to make sure you do not go over your available budget. So, make sure you look at the overall cost – this will usually be given after the professional has been out to assess the space under your home. It can depend on the size of the space, the type and level of damage, and other factors. You can then look at your finances to work out affordability.

How Soon the Work Will Be Done

You may also want to check how soon the work can start and how long it will take, particularly if you are already experiencing issues because of the crawl space damage. Again, this is something that the professional will be able to tell you once they have been out to look at the area and had the chance to assess the damage.

What Other People Say

It is always advisable to see what other people have to say about the provider before you make your decision. Looking at reviews online can provide you with more detail about how reliable the provider is and what the quality of their work is like. You can also find out about their levels of service and other aspects of their overall reputation. This then makes it easier for you to make the right decision.

How Much Experience the Provider Has

One additional thing to consider is the level of experience the provider has with this type of work. You can find out more about this from reading online reviews. However, make sure you also look at their website for details of how long they have been operating, past projects and track record, and specialist credentials.

These are four of the key things to look at before you make your decision.

“Prioritizing good sleep is good self-love.” Are you willing to get sound sleep but unable to be comfortable in the mattresses?

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Then, we at Mattress Topper Judge are here to guide you about the best mattress and topmost mattress toppers review that can help you out in choosing the right product for your sound sleep. There are tons of mattresses and topper available in the market that creates confusion for the people to choose the best one. You must aware of the wide range of functions like a softer feel, firmer, or staying cool while sleeping. Mattress and mattress topper are also made from a wide variety of materials, including feathers, memory foam, polyfoam, latex, and wool also. Thus, choosing the mattress as per the sleeping position creates a difference in the decision-making of people. Therefore, make sure to do in-depth research before investing in the mattress & its topper, this one only reviews toppers and mattresses in further informative details.

The Best Mattress Toppers Review in 2021

Plush Beds covers come in a variety of sizes that includes Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King. Along with this, Plush Beds Mattress also comes in different thicknesses ranging from 2 to 4 inches. These are the best mattresses for providing extra support and helps in relieving body pressure as well. Mentioned are the pros of buying this mattress’s Topper.

• Best for the stomach sleeper & back sleepers
• Help in making you feel firmer
• Cradles pressure points
• Gels in Topper prevents overheating

If you are willing to spend a premium amount on a mattress topper then choosing Lift by Amerisleep is a really good option for you. It relieves pressure points with extra firming and cushioning layers. Thus, it is the perfect choice for adding comfort and support while sleeping. 

• 100 days free Sleep trials
• Natural cooling for preventing overheating
• Built with micro grip straps for securing your mattress
• It has two firmness options

Layla Memory Foam Topper

It is one of the most comfortable mattress toppers for sleeping. This topper is infused with copper and helps in drawing the heat from the body. With adding support and comfort it also has a super breathable and cooling feature that makes it the first choice for sleepers. It is the perfect topper for side or back sleepers.

• A cooling option for drawing all the body heat
• Available in every mattress size
• Perfect for sleepers of any weight
• Machine washable
• Available is just about every mattress size

Sweet Night 2” Ultra Soft Mattress Topper

It is a gel memory foam mattress that helps in providing pressure relief. Sweet Night2″ ultra Soft mattress Topper is available in four sizes: twin, full, queen, and king. Also, it has a fitted sheet design that helps in preventing slipping off the bed.

• Available as a waterproof mattress cover
• Has straps and a fitted sheet design for preventing slipping
• Features cooling memory foam
• Gel memory foam to regulate your temperature and  provide support 

Gets the Premium sleeping experience you can trust?

With continuous research, we have reviewed all the best toppers and mattresses that will satisfy your sleeping needs. By figuring out where your mattress is lacking and filling the pending gaps we will help you with the best mattress topper. As there are a variety of mattress toppers available in the market. By reviewing the topmost ones we will make sure that you will find the right option that suits your needs. Like some of you might like more support, some people want more cushion, and some need help staying cool at night. All the pros and cons are mentioned above in the article as most of the companies review mattresses but here we have reviewed the Best Mattress Toppers for you. So, we hope that this list of our top picks for the best mattress toppers will let you get the right option as per your particular needs. Enjoy Happy Sleeping with Best Mattress and Mattress Topper. 

In a world of fakes and dupes, finding authentic art pieces is tricky.

Photo by Dannie Jing on Unsplash

When shopping for original art, it’s crucial to make sure you’re aware of all the dupes out there. Many people dedicate their entire careers to identifying fakes. Thankfully, you don’t have to be an expert to spot some key red flags. 

There are even ways to find authentic art pieces online, but it’s trickier. Many websites don’t actively police their sellers. A reputable online art gallery is the surefire way to go when sourcing authentic and original pieces.

Rule Out Prints 

Some forgers work in the business of mass-producing prints or an art piece. Thankfully, a lot of prints are very easy to rule out. Some prints you can tell are prints just by holding them. Some try to mimic the texture of a painting.

If a painting is held under a light source, you should be able to see the light shining through the canvas if it’s an original. This is because artists work with various layers of paints and colors. Prints won’t have any of this. If the light doesn’t shine through, it might be a print. 

Check the Provenance

The provenance of an art piece is a record of its ownership history dating back to when the original artist painted it. Attaining the provenance can be difficult for older works, and unfortunately, forged paintings develop a provenance of their own as they are sold from person to person. 

Forgers can also fake documents as easily as they can with paintings, but it’s easier to do this with older work. Checking the provenance of a modern art piece is a great way to verify its authenticity. 

Check the Signature 

Lots of people new to art shopping automatically associate a signature with authenticity, but that’s not always the case.  While none of the quick tricks to identify forged signatures could substitute the eye of a trained professional, there are ways you can try and identify fake signatures on your own. 

First, check the signature on the artwork and compare it to the artist’s signature across their other work. If it looks different, the painting may not be authentic. Unfortunately, most forgers are skilled enough to replicate signatures effectively. 

With a trained eye, almost anyone could forge a signature. Even if the signature has enough similarities with the artist’s other work, that doesn’t mean it isn’t forged.

You should make sure that you also pay attention to the signature’s location. Most artists have a particular place on their pieces where they like to put their signature. A common forgery tactic is putting the signature on the back of the art even when the artist typically puts theirs on the front, so keep that in mind. 

When buying online, make sure the seller provides a detailed image of the signature. The image should lack glare or too many shadows. If the seller doesn’t have a detailed picture of the signature, have them e-mail you one. You can’t be too careful. 

You should also be careful with pencil and ink signatures. These are the easiest to forge. Not every piece signed with pencil or ink is forged. Some genuine artists have pencil and ink signatures, but because the signature type is easy to fake, take even more caution. 

Ensure you check that the surrounding area of the signature looks identical to the rest of the painting. Some forgers will paint over signatures of lesser-known artists and try to pass their work off as that of famous ones. 

Spotting fake signatures will help you on your quest to find authentic art. When the signature is off, It’s a surefire way of ruling out a painting as inauthentic. 

Find a Reputable Source 

Due to all the reasons mentioned above, take caution when shopping online. Most online auction sites are risky. Try and find a dependable website for your art shopping. There are legitimate galleries that sell online! As with anything online, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

Remember that on the untrustworthy internet sites, people lie—a lot. The issue doesn’t just lie in whether or not a piece of art is traditionally authentic. Some art pieces may be genuine but wholly misrepresented. Very few websites moderate how people describe and price the paintings they sell, making the internet feel like the wild west of art dealing.

It’s your safest bet to go through a reputable gallery or dealer. With a reputable dealer or gallery, you can rest assured that professionals have vetted the work you’re buying. You might even get the inside scoop and reassurance from the curator themself.

Certificate of Authenticity

Make sure any piece of art you buy comes with a certificate of authenticity.  This certificate must be sold with the original painting. Artwork without a certificate is almost definitely fake. 

Unfortunately, if people can forge intricate paintings, people can trick you into thinking that the certificate is legitimate as well. The certificate of authenticity shouldn’t be the only thing to look at when determining if you’re painting is authentic. 

Find the Artwork of Your Dreams 

Just with a few simple methods to rule out bad actors, you can be more confident when buying authentic art. Of course, nothing can replace a dedicated professional’s work, but not everyone has the resources to hire one. 

The online shopping world has turned every industry, including the art world, on its head. It’s easier for forgers to sell inauthentic paintings to unsuspecting buyers on a mass scale. Even with this new age, physical forgeries in stores still happen. 

Fakes are everywhere. It would be awful to think you’re investing in a piece from an artist you admire, only to find out you put all that money into a con. Make sure to protect yourself when buying art by using a reputable gallery and doing your research.  

There has been an increase in the demand for block tables for homes, restaurants, and even offices. This wave might catch up to you too, and you cannot afford to be left behind.

Imagine de DarkmoonArt_de de la Pixabay

The tables make a space look sleek and stylish by creating a natural countryside look. In kitchens, they are both functional and statement pieces. However, before you go ahead and purchase the table, there are a few things you need to know about them.  

1)             The Tables are Made from Wood

Block tables are mostly made from hard maple wood due to their ability to withstand all kitchen activities. However, some are also made from other wood and lumber types, depending on their prices and availability. The wood on these butcher block tables is infused together using glue and clamped together for stability. Additional pieces to make legs can be made from metal or plastic.

2)             Can be Custom Made

When looking for a block table, it is not easy to find your exact fit for your space. You are forced to either take a small one and have space left or a large one from pre-made options, and you chop some bits off. You can get yours custom-made for your exact space and design by providing workshop owners with your required measurements. With many wood options out there, it is also possible to choose the material. However, consult the experts to avoid using wood that can transfer its smell to food.

3)             They need Care to Last Longer

Just because the wood is clamped and looks like a slab does not mean it is not wood. The block needs care just like any other wooden piece. Avoid exposing the wood to heat as this might burn it and burn your house along with it. Also, avoid water as it can seep in and form mold. In areas where you cannot avoid water, consider sealing the wood using wax or any other FDA-approved sealing products. Some blocks are left untreated to work as both a table and a cutting space but consider using a cutting board if you can help it. This helps reduce scratches and dents.

4)             Cleaning

Block tables are as sensitive as granite and marble and should be treated as such. When cleaning, use a soft cleaning fabric to avoid scratching it. Avoid bleaches at all costs since they mess with the wood. Wipes spill as soon as they occur to avoid staining the surface. When stained, use lemon or baking soda to remove them or a mild stain remover. Do not scratch as you clean to avoid more dents. Once a year, sand the surface to smoothen it and create uniformity. You can also oil the wood to nourish it by replenishing its oils and enhance its look.

5)             Can be Built as a DIY Project

Wood is not only stylish; it is also expensive, making it an unattainable dream for many. When you do not want to give up on your dream, you can make your own table for a fraction of the price. You can buy cheap material from dollar stores and assemble them to make your table. Additionally, you can use reclaimed material to bring the costs lower. Refurbishing old tables is also an option, and you can purchase them from flea markets or garage sales from those getting rid of them.

6)             Can be Multifunctional

This type of table can be used for more than one function. They can be used as tables in the kitchen or as an island. If they come with wheels, they can be used as a food cart around the house during parties or for outdoor meals. Additionally, they can be used as cutting boards. For them to be used as cutting boards, the wood must be left naked. The thick wood gives the table more shelf life despite going through wear and tear.

7)            Can Pose a Great Health Risk

Cleaning wood might be a good way to keep germs away, but it does not always work. Cracks and cuts are likely to harbor bacteria, and these might lead to infections. They can also have foods stuck, and its decomposition can be the source of severe infections once it comes in contact with food. Treated wood can also pose a health risk if the chemicals used are not directly or indirectly approved for food contact. Additionally, as part of the treatment process, you can oil your board using a range of oils such as coconut, walnut, and tung oil. However, some oils can cause severe allergic reactions posing a health problem. Before using the oil, check the ingredients.

Going away for a business trip or a holiday is always a great experience! We all love the sense of adventure and anticipation of new things to see and explore. 

Photo by David McBee from Pexels

But what about the things we leave behind? Will everything wait for us in the same state as we left it? The biggest fear and worry we experience has to be connected with unwanted visitors and burglaries. 

And rightly so. The FBI says that a burglary happens every 30 seconds on average. Moreover, 3 out of 4 American homes will be victim to burglary in the next 20 years. 

Moreover, even if we did alert the neighbors, the numbers don’t go in our favor – most burglaries occur between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. which is a period most of us are away at work. 

Data like that must be alerting for folks going on a long trip away. That is why it is important to secure your home when you know you’re going to be out for a prolonged period. Below we explain how to optimize your home for a long trip away using the 5 best methods.

Burglar-Proof Your Home

When you burglar-proof your home start with the windows, the doors, and the locks. These comprise the main points of entry for burglars.

The metal plate that secures your door lock uses the same screws that hold your shelves together. Replace the screws on your current door frame with 3-inch stainless steel screws for additional reinforcement against burglars trying to kick down or break down your door. Electronic smart locks can be used to lock your home remotely, and in the event that something goes wrong they can be used to relock your doors while you are on vacation. The same types of locks and reinforcements can be applied to your windows. This will prevent burglars from being able to break in through a window in order to steal from you.

Similarly, consider replacing your front door with a strong wood door or a steel or fiberglass option, the latter two being very low maintenance and durable but all three being incredibly strong.

Keep the Garage Secure

While most people focus only on the front doors and back doors, they forget the garage doors. Your garage serves as another possible point of entry, and even if you have a door leading into your home from the garage that remains securely locked, there is likely a lot that can be burglarized directly in your garage. 

The FBI reports the average burglary loss to be $2,661, a figure that can come just from the goods you store in your garage. Be sure to lock the interior and the exterior of your garage and if you go on vacation, keep your vehicle inside. If you have a security code for your garage, hide it with the same level of secrecy you apply to your debit card. 

[Important notice]

Most of us with remote garage door openers carry those inside our vehicles, so if you plan to leave your car parked in the driveway be sure to deactivate that remote opener or take it away with you, as this is an easy way in for an experienced burglar. 

Consider upgrading to a Smart garage door opener that you can monitor from your phone while on vacation; illuminate the area, add locks, and a potential security system.

Light Matters

Most people vacation in the summer, and most burglaries happen then too. Statistics show that burglaries increase 10% between June and August. So if you are on vacation in the summer, remember that light matters. Burglars are more likely to break into a home that is not well lit because this provides them cover. Having ample lighting around your property is a simple way to prevent casual thieves from trying to break in. 

There are hundreds of different lighting options you can choose from, such as lights along the walkways, around the front doors and back doors to your home as well as garages, or lighting around any outdoor structures you have. The more outdoor lighting you have, the bigger the deterrent will be.

Similarly, most burglars will attack when they think people are not home and they come to this conclusion by observing small things like the presence of lights in a home. Seeing lights go on and off during the day or in the evening is a sign that someone is present. So, light matters inside as much as it matters outside. You can use timers for your lights and structure it through your mobile device too.

Invest in Security Cameras

When you invest in security cameras, consider installing a CCTV that you can use with your mobile device. This technology lets you view videos of activity happening around your home from your smartphone. 

When you are on vacation, a dedicated app tied to your home security system can let you check in occasionally, and let you see records of things if they go wrong. Wireless home security cameras come with AI that looks specifically for suspicious activity outside of your home and automatically contacts the authorities in the event that something goes wrong. You can put these cameras not just around your front door, but around your garage, back door, and around the perimeter of your property. 

You should also consider having a video doorbell. While it is not likely that a burglar will ring your front door, a video doorbell can still offer records of any attempted burglaries, and it goes a long way toward providing a bit of extra light around your front door, which can prevent additional cover for those attempting to break into your home.

Get a Guard on Duty

Rural areas are more likely to be victimized, with heavily populated states like New York showing only 142 burglaries per 100,000 citizens, and rural areas like New Mexico having 697 burglaries per 100,000 citizens. 

No matter where you live, the most secure and effective method is always a real person, and while a friendly neighbor can peek in on your home once a day, a guard on duty as part of your home security system is a far better option. And while traditional security systems can take ages to respond, with the most advanced security solutions you have live security cameras that don’t just monitor and record the activity around your home, but are viewed by a live guard, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If an intruder is spotted, the guards will speak to them directly through the system, and if they don’t leave, contact the police. This type of system functions as a much more secure home security system to deter potential burglaries. The effect is tantamount to having a security guard wandering your property while you are on vacation.

Overall, overkill is the best solution. The more ways you can optimize your home for a long trip, the safer your home will be from burglary.

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Tomasz Borys

Tomasz specializes in home safety and security technology. Prior to joining Deep Sentinel, Tomasz has over a decade of marketing leadership experience, ranging from Microsoft to Kissmetrics.