Heading out of town? Before you jet off to your next adventure, don’t forget to take a few simple steps to prepare your home for your absence.
Your home is more than just a place to live—it’s your haven and one of your most valuable assets. As experts in all things home, Newrez has created this guide to help you keep your property safe, tidy and well cared for while you’re away.
Read on for some more detailed tips on how to prepare when you leave town—some may not be applicable to you, depending on where you live, so adjust accordingly and do your own research.
Set Your Thermostat Accordingly
You don’t want to waste energy—and money—heating or cooling your home while you aren’t there, but it may not be wise to completely turn off your heating and cooling system either.
- Summer: Set your A/C to just a few degrees below the temperature outside (For example, if the outside temp is 85°F, set the temp to 75-80°F).
- Winter: Set your heater to about 55°F to prevent your pipes from freezing.
Stop Your Mail
An overflowing mailbox can be a magnet for criminals—not only does it tip them off that you aren’t home, but they could get ahold of sensitive information in your mail.
- Use the U.S. Postal Service Hold Mail Service to hold mail at your local post office for up to 30 days.
- Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail while you’re gone.
Turn Off Your Water
Leaks can turn into property-damaging floods if you aren’t around to catch them in time.
- Locate your main water valve and turn it off.
- For shorter trips, turn off the valves to your dishwasher and washing machine.
Care for Pets and Plants
Make sure your furry companions are well looked after:
- Arrange for a pet sitter, perhaps a trusted friend or family member who knows your pet.
- Book a reputable boarding facility in advance—avoid hunting for a booking last-minute.
Are you a plant parent? Keep your plants happy and green:
- Install a simple watering globe, or hire a plant sitter.
- Move sensitive plants away from direct sun or heat sources.
Clean Out the Fridge
No one wants to deal with nasty smells coming from their fridge after a trip.
- Eat, donate, or throw away all perishable food items.
- Take this opportunity to wipe down the inside of your fridge with vinegar and water.
Take Out the Trash
This step is extra important if you don’t want to come home to unpleasant odors in your home.
- Empty trash bins, especially those in your kitchen and bathroom.
- Run your garbage disposal with a lemon slice to keep it fresh.
- Clean pet litter boxes.
Unplug Unnecessary Electronics
Not only will this reduce your electricity usage while you’re out, but unplugging appliances lessens the likelihood of an electrical fire occurring.
- Unplug TVs, computers, coffee makers, toasters, chargers and power strips.
- Keep your Wi-Fi router and smart security systems online as needed.
Secure Your Home
Your last and most essential step for vacation readiness: Home safety.
- Lock all windows, doors and garage entrances.
- Stash valuables out of sight or in a safe.
- Double check smart locks, security alarms, cameras and motion lights.
- Use automated timers to turn lights on and off in your home to make your home appear occupied.
Have a Wonderful Vacation!
Now you can truly relax, knowing you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep your home safe, energy efficient and clean while you’re out. It’s always a good feeling returning to a clean and cozy home-sweet-home.
Are you considering buying a home or refinancing† your mortgage? Newrez carries a full suite of loan products so you can find one that fits your lifestyle and financial circumstances. Reach out to a mortgage expert today.
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