Absolutely! There are more single women buying homes now than men! Its a great time to buy also with low rates, tax credits and a huge inventory to choose from.
This is not meant to scare women away from buying a home, but to help prepare women for home ownership safety and to present advice and tips on finding the right home by making sure security is top priority.
Buy Homes With Attached Garages.
Having a garage attached to the house is a great idea when the days get shorter and you would have to walk from the curb to the house. Also having an electric door opener is a necessity.
Pay Attention to Lighting
Abundant street lighting and motion-sensor lights offer more security than dimly lit areas. You may want to stroll the streets at night or depending on your schedule be coming home or going to work in the dark.
Inspect Door Locks and Door Jambs
Look at the door jamb to determine if it's been cracked or repaired. Notice if the lock is new. If you notice a damaged door jamb or a new lock, ask why. A screen door that acts as a security door with its own locking system provides more protection. Also, make sure all exterior doors have strong deadbolts, which unlock from the inside -- for fire safety reasons -- without a key.
Be Aware of the Layout of Bedrooms
Even though a bedroom on the second floor sounds safer it can also sometimes muffle sound from the first floor. You may not know an intruder is in the house. It's also more difficult to escape from a second-floor bedroom if the threat is a fire rather than a burglar.
If Buying a Condo, Don't buy on the Ground Floor
Intruders usually don't want to bother with climbing stairs, taking an elevator or being noticed in a building, which is why first-floor condos tend to attract more crime. Condos that face the street are often considered more secure than those toward the back.
Check the Windows
See how far away they are from the door handle. If they are in easy reach for a burgler to smash the window and open the door, it might not be a good purchase. Also look for double pain windows as these are harder to break.
Research Neighborhood Crime Reports
This is always a great idea for anyone moving to a new home. Families can check for criminals in the area and learn the rates of crimes in a particular area.
Buy Homes With a Fenced Back Yard
Anything that makes it more difficult for a thief to break in, steal something or rob you is a good thing; even a fence. Fences deter criminals and better yet, dogs are more of a hassle then their worth to criminals. Think about extra protection where you can.
With these simple tips in mind, you can head out armed with knowledge and confidence on finding the right home for you. Call me and let me help you find the perfect Enterprise real estate for you and your lifestyle!
