Home hacks to make your holiday season a little merrier

The Springbok win and looming summer holidays has put us all in a better mood. Whatever you celebrate, it is a time when people are either spending more time at home or away.

If you're away for the holidays

With holiday crime on the rise, it's prudent to remind you to remain vigilant. Check your security system and inform the response company and perhaps neighbours that you will be away. Get a neighbour or friend to look in from time to time or get a house sitter. Don't forget to check that your homeowner's and household insurance is up to date.

Double check your booking before departure. If it's a long road trip or flight, take snacks and something to read or listen to. Don't forget to set your phone's roaming. A local Pay-As-You-Go SIM card might be cheaper if travelling abroad and do look out for Wi-Fi.

Do a home check before you leave, switch off and unplug as you go along and close and lock doors and security gates. Get your home cleaned beforehand, clear the fridge and empty bins.

If you're home for the holidays

Be a tourist in your own city but plan your trips carefully so that you don't spend unnecessary time in traffic. Stay vigilant, lock your house thoroughly and arm your alarm even if you are just popping out for a few hours, and be just as vigilant when you are out and about.

Recycle, keep leftover food for the next day. Use spare time to do a closet clear-out and donate old clothes and goodies to a local charity, it may just provide a little Christmas cheer to them. Better yet, volunteer some of your time to help out at a local charity.

______

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest tips and trends in the property industry, as well as some of the most relevant news about the area you call home.