When the time comes to list your home for sale, preparing your property for potential buyers becomes a top priority. It’s crucial not only to stage your home attractively but also to ensure the safety of your personal belongings during showings and open houses. While it might be tempting to overlook, taking proactive measures to secure your valuables is of utmost importance.
During open houses, a variety of prospective buyers—and sometimes strangers—will walk through your home. As the number of show attendees can be unpredictable, it’s advisable to remove any valuables, both for peace of mind and to prevent potential theft.
Here are several steps to consider when safeguarding your possessions:
Identify High-Value Items: Begin by taking inventory of your high-value items, such as jewelry, artwork, electronics, and important documents. Identifying these items will help you better plan for their security.
Utilize a Safe: For smaller valuable items like jewelry and important documents, consider using a safe. If you don't already have one, renting a temporary safe can be a worthwhile investment during the selling process.
Temporary Relocation: If possible, relocate your valuables to a secure offsite location such as a safety deposit box or a trusted friend or family member’s house.
Concealment: In the case where relocation isn’t an option, consider thoughtful concealment. Ensure these items are not in plain view and use creative methods to hide them from easy discovery.
Restrict Access to Certain Areas: If necessary, restrict access to certain rooms or areas of your home during open houses. Use signs or request that your real estate agent guides visitors to avoid these areas.
By taking these preventative measures, you help ensure that your showing experience remains positive and free from distress. When selling your home, protecting its appeal is important, but safeguarding your peace of mind and valued possessions is indispensable. Remember, a little vigilance goes a long way in keeping your belongings secure.
Til Next Time,
Jillian
Every month Jillian Keck Hogan shares local real estate insight, advice, and more. To learn more about Jillian and her team, visit jillianhoganhomes.com and follow her real estate group on Instagram @jillianhoganhomes. Equal Housing Opportunity.
