Therefore, arrange to collect them periodically. Have the Post Office forward all mail.
• Leave the lights glowing. It is a good idea to leave the lights on in vacant homes. While it is not necessary and a waste of power to leave the lights on during the daytime, you may arrange to do it during nights by installing timers so that the lights turn on automatically during the nights. You can set on and off times in these devices. This can paint a picture to onlookers that there is some activity going on in the home. It is also equally important to keep the exterior well-lit so that any suspicious activity can be seen by the neighbors and passersby. • Maintain the temperature. Keep the interior temperature at a reasonable setting. Keep the inside temperature between 68 and 70 degrees. This can help you maintain comfortable energy bills. The ideal temperature inside can also give a welcoming feel to buyers when they visit your property. • Examine your insurance policy. Homeowners policies differ in their handling of “unoccupied” and “vacant” property. While some insurance policies can compensate you for acts of vandalism, some do not. Fire coverage is also important to determine. You need to talk to your insurer and find out what kind of provisions are in your policy. Speak to your homeowners insurance agent. • Nominate a local contact. If you cannot visit your vacant home regularly, entrust the responsibility of checking both the inside and outside of the property from time to time to 61
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