Even the most experienced jetsetters and road trip drivers are anxious about their homes. There are many scenarios that can happen while they are away. There might be a burglar lurking around and waiting for his chance. And the heating system can become problematic, wreaking havoc on your home and neighborhood. It’s okay to have these fears, but understand that these are preventable as long as you have the necessary set-ups in place.
If you are leaving your home for a very long time (perhaps, an around-the-world trip or an expat job), you will need to make sure that your home will be in great shape ‘til the moment you come back. And you have to understand that the preparations are quite elaborate, and they require your full attention.
Here are some things you need to do:
Decide whether you’re going to have it rented out
Say you’ll be out of the country for at least six months to a year. You need to decide who’s going to live in your home for the time being. Will it be your sister or brother? Or if you want to make money out of it, you can find a renter months before you leave. Should you decide to take this route, you might want to secure a comprehensive agreement or contract.
Fix the plumbing and electricity lines
Before you leave, you need to give your home a thorough inspection. This is especially true in case you have decided that someone will live in it for the meantime. Have the electricity lines checked and repaired by a professional. Ask a plumber to fix leaking faucets and faulty water lines. Not doing this can spell trouble while you are away. While you are at it, check the homes for pests and set up deterrents. You don’t want to come home to a home damaged by rats and insects, right?
Amplify your security measures
Fixing your locks and loose window hinges are already a no-brainer. But if you are leaving for quite some time, you need to enhance your existing security measures. Replace your faulty police alarm and install a working one. Install motion-activated floodlights to alert your neighborhood for a possible burglary. For documentation, there should be doorbell cameras or other surveillance devices around the property. And since security is being talked about, always hide your keys!
Work with a trusted family member or neighbor
You ought to let your family members or neighbors how long you will be out of the country. In case you are working with a neighbor, give them the necessary contact details of your other friends and family members. Some advice that you ask your neighbor to park their car in your driveway to give an illusion that someone is still inside the house. If you’re working with a family member, ask them to occupy the place now and then.
Travel without worries
You surely want to travel without worrying too much about your home. That’s possible! You have to outline your concerns, write the possible solutions, and work with the people you trust.
