Whether you live in an apartment or in a house, you should always put the security of your loved ones at the top of your priority list. You start by increasing the security of your door. Here are several ways you can do so.

Key tips on improving your home security with door security hardware.

  1. Consider Going Keyless

The trend of indoor security is leaning towards electronics. There are numerous door lock options available that don’t require any key and there are several reasons for that. The most obvious one is convenience. You won’t fumble for your keys each time you enter and leave the premises. They are often easy to install and maintain. And you won’t have to get the locks replaced when you lose a set of your keys. Also, these keyless door lock systems are battery operated so there’s no need for you to hire an electrician to route wiring to your door. Battery-powered door locks also continue to function in a black-out. And the last reason for going keyless is better access control, meaning, you can control who is allowed access to the premises. This is particularly crucial for businesses with a high rate of turnover.

  1. Choose the Right Deadbolt

If you are wary of an electronic door lock system, you can opt for the trusty old deadbolt to increase the security of your door. But it’s important to point out that you can’t just choose the first deadbolt you see. They vary in performance, with others failing quite easily while others last a lifetime. In order to do so, you first have to know what makes for a quality deadbolt.   One, look for the ANSI Grade 1 designation. These locks passed the standards developed by the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association so you can be sure you’re getting a quality lock. Next, go for a deadbolt with key control. You can limit the number of people who will get a copy of the key such as a help or a trusted employee. Third, choose a deadbolt that’s resistant to sawing and should have at least a minimum of 1-inch long-throw or bar.

  1. Get a Doorbell Camera

Similar to a hidden camera, a doorbell camera allows homeowners to monitor their front door discreetly. It combines the function of a doorbell to alert residents of a visitor as well as allowing people from the inside to see who’s outside even before they open the door. Before going out and buying a doorbell camera for your home or business, you should pay attention to the needed features.   One, it should offer an HD video feed. It should have Wi-Fi connectivity as well as two-way audio so you can talk to visitors. You can also go for a model with a wide-angle camera and it should also have a waterproof and weather-resistant case.

  1. Install a Security System

Door security is aimed at preventing the wrong people from gaining entry into the home or business. Should a crafty burglar or criminal bypass it, however, you should be prepared for a contingency plan. This is where a door security system plays a role. Should strangers manage to gain entry to the house, if they can’t provide the right access code to the system right by the door, it will automatically sound an alarm and even send a notification to the homeowner and to a central hub alerting them of the unauthorized entry. Not only that, if you left without locking the door, but it will also send out a notification reminder to you via your phone. Other methods you can implement to increase the security of your door include replacing low-quality door locks. You can also reinforce the weak points of your door like the hinges and door jambs. If it’s possible, have a quality storm door installed.

Author Bio: Eliza Brooks is an ardent blogger and frequent traveler who writes about home improvement, travel, and the latest trends in emerging technologies. She is currently working with EyeSpySupply, which offers a wide range of surveillance equipment, including wireless hidden cameras, nanny cams, GPS trackers, voice-activated audio recorders, and more.

Only use reputable locksmiths

Be aware of who is the locksmith company you choose, Below you can watch how locksmiths businesses doing tricks and charging you for unnecessary work.

Whether you are searching for technicians for lock repair/replacement or someone who can help you in emergency door/car lockout situations, a professional locksmith in Los Angeles is your ultimate solution provider.

Longer days, cooler nights, and thousands of things to do and explore during summer vacations in Los Angeles. LA weather has a summer vibe throughout the year. Your kid will never get bored since this city is filled with gorgeous beaches, art galleries, interesting museums, local campgrounds, and much more warm-weather fun activities to do. But one of the major concerns is leaving your house for long trips without any tight door and better lock security since this is also the best time for home invaders.

Professional Locksmith in Los Angeles

You can expect below the following services in a professional Locksmith in Los Angeles before heading out for summer vacations:-

1) Fully licensed, insured, and bonded residential locksmiths can help you with re-keying/opening/replacing/repairing the damaged locks, extracting a broken key, popping out the lock, etc…

2) Highly skilled commercial locksmith technicians are equipped with knowledge of working with heavy-duty locks, alarm or camera systems, access controls, intercoms, safes, gate locks, etc…. They offer services after understanding the commercial security requirements and employee protection needs.

3) Lost in your favorite musical concert while on vacation that you forgot your automotive keys inside your vehicle? No need to panic! Just Dial Get Pro locksmith number and the skilled technician will reach you within minutes to get you out of this emergency. He can carefully open your car door lock without damaging or can make a new key or remote one.

4) In addition to residential, commercial, and automotive security, you can rely on these technicians for safes or vault installation/opening/repair, installation of access control gadgets with fingerprints/key cards/voice readers controlling mechanisms, providing full HD displays CCTV installation for 24/7 recording of every activity around premises, and much more.

Residential and commercial locksmiths in Los Angeles

Residential and commercial locksmiths in Los Angeles can guide the latest and state-of-the-art locking mechanisms existing in the market. Nowadays you can control or access your home or office security automation devices from any distance just by a few clicks on your Smartphone. You can turn on/off the lights of your home, open/close the gates regulate the air-conditioner temperature before you reach home, and a lot more. You can choose as per your security and budget requirements.

Do you know that at least 30% of people misplace their keys while they are on vacations or partying?

This data becomes important when you want to leave your residence for a weekend summer vacation. Contacting the right locksmith will let you only think about the number of drinks you wish to enjoy on a summery beach night and not about locks and keys. So stop waiting and approach a trustworthy and professional locksmith in Los Angeles like Get Pro Locksmith.

When you’re locked out of your home, how can you be sure that the genuine locksmith service you’re calling on isn’t trying to scam you?

Every day, U.S. citizens make 250,000 calls requesting the assistance of a locksmith, according to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Sadly, scammers have honed in on this emergency call-out service and are setting up fake locksmith businesses with the intention of doing nothing more than fleecing you out of your hard-earned cash in your hour of need.

Be prepared for an emergency

To be sure that the locksmith you’re dealing with is genuine, you should prepare for an emergency home lockout situation. By giving yourself plenty of time to scour the net, read reviews and choose a locksmith to have on standby, you can be sure that when the time comes to utilize their services, that they’ll be trustworthy, reliable, and honest. It’s particularly advisable to prepare an aging family member in this way as seniors tend to be more trusting and are therefore easier targets for scammers.

Some locksmiths have even come up with specific schemes designed to steal from seniors, which are similar to how financial fraud relating to savings or mortgages takes place. But, by being one step ahead, you can safeguard yourself and your family from common locksmith scams.

Bait and switch scam

When you’re locked out of your home, you’ll do anything to get back in as quickly as possible. The average locksmith in the U.S. charges between $75 and $100, according to Money.com. However, fraudsters know this and are using these figures and sometimes even more attractive ones to lure customers in.

A locksmith who’s trying to scam you will then show up at your property, advise you that the work is more complicated than expected, and will quote you a figure typically seven to eight times the original estimate. But, rather than cough up, this is the time to walk away and to call upon a professional and legitimate locksmith who will treat you with the utmost respect and charge you fairly.

Key copying scam

Another common locksmith scam involves the con artist sneakily making a copy of your house key. He or she may do this when they ‘pop out’ for a part or by using a portable key copying machine which they have stashed in their van. They’ll then keep an eye on your house and when they’re sure that you’re not in, they’ll break in and rob you. To prevent you and your home from becoming victims of this scam, only ever use a fully licensed and insured locksmith. And, for extra assurance, avoid letting the key to your home out of your sight.

Purchasing a property to then rent out is one of the most effective ways to grow your wealth. According to the Washington Post, a $40,000 investment will grow to over $256,000 on average after ten years, representing a wonderful return on investment. The one major obstacle to your success in this market is people. By and large, tenants are conscientious and will treat your property as their own. The small minority, however, can create issues, and having a dedicated locksmith will help you to rectify these with the minimum loss of income.

For Savvy Buy-To-Let Landlords, A Locksmith Is Non-Negotiable

Catering for students

Like most tenants, students are by the majority well behaved and will look after their accommodation. Landlords are, in general, positive about letting students, with studies showing that up to 71% of students are punctual with rent payments and treat the property respectfully. For the minority, having a locksmith is effective for when students fail to return keys on the vacation of the property, or for when damages cause an eviction.

Furthermore, due to the connection between the students, parents, and college authorities, it is often more straightforward to recoup costs. This is even more likely in the modern-day. CNBC recently noted that more students are taking insurance plans out for their accommodation, giving landlords the option of pursuing insurance claims.

Evicting problem tenants

Problem tenants, who will prevent lawful eviction and stay in a property way past their welcome, are an ongoing problem for landlords across North America. In Canada, one tenant spent months in a property, costing $12,000 in rent arrears. When a lawful eviction is declared, the problem here is often too slow action on the part of the landlord. Having a reliable and qualified locksmith gives you the opportunity to swiftly take action when the need arises, assuming all of the legal barriers have been surmounted.

Day to day issues

Lost or locked-in keys are one of the most common problems that tenants face and a landlord with a qualified locksmith has the opportunity to provide great customer service. According to a tips guide published by the New York Times, a great landlord will offer a great relationship with their tenant. Alongside other workers who can provide emergency help, like plumbers and gas fitters, having a locksmith or company that can provide reliable help, despite the cost, will help to alleviate a little of your tenant’s stress and give them a better quality of life.

Ultimately, small changes like these will help to create a tenant for a long period of time, who will also be more receptive to necessary changes like rent increases or changing city taxes. However, having a locksmith allows a landlord to do three things.

  • First, problems can be rectified quickly as they arise.
  • Secondly, problem tenants can be dealt with legally and with minimum hassle.
  • Finally, an extra layer of security can be provided for tenants, building your relationship with them.

Only use reputable locksmiths

Be aware of who is the locksmith company you choose, Below you can watch how locksmiths businesses doing tricks and charging you for unnecessary work.

How to Avoid Calling a Locksmith During a Party?

House parties are fun, and housewarming parties are a great way to integrate yourself into a new neighborhood. However, 28% of people misplace their keys each week, and if you factor in a party atmosphere and good conversation, you’re likely to be a little more forgetful about where you place them. Being surrounded by close friends and family is a great way to celebrate a special event or even warm up your new place with laughter and cheer. However, it’s important to focus on locksmith safety tips when planning a house party, as you won’t want to be caught outside in the cold in need of a locksmith when the party’s just getting started.

  • Invite Guests You Know

Housewarming parties are a great way to get to know the neighbors and make new friends. However, if you’re inviting people over to your home or apartment, it’s best to only invite people you know simply for safety reasons. To further increase safety, pick a housewarming party theme that somehow promotes a quest to “check-in” before the party. Murder mystery party themes or any other sort of theme that requires people to write down their name and participate in a game of sorts will help you keep track of who is coming in and out of your home.

  • Lock Doors to Personal Rooms

Whether you’re having a housewarming party to show off your new space or simply want to have a few friends over for a kickback, it’s a good idea to lock the doors to personal areas of your home. Party guests likely don’t need to be entering your bedroom or home office, and if they do, they can ask you to accompany them to do so. If your bedroom doors don’t have locks on them, you can ask your locksmith about high-security lock installation or simply store your personal belongings and expensive electronic items in a safe or another secure area.

  • Have a Spare Set of Keys

In the middle of all of the commotion, it’s easy to get carried away with the festivities and wander outside without your keys in hand. It’s a smart idea to have a spare set of keys on hand to avoid the need to call a locksmith in the wee hours of the morning. If you think you might lose track of your spare keys as well, consider having the number of a trusted locksmith on hand just as an extra safety measure. Don’t feel ashamed if you need to give them a call, as up to 250,000 Americans make emergency calls to locksmiths each day.

A safe house party is easy to throw if you have taken the necessary precautions beforehand. Be sure to include safety as an important aspect of any party planning measures and you’ll find yourself feeling relaxed and secure about inviting guests into your home to enjoy the festivities along with you instead of worrying about potential theft or being locked out of your own home.

Only use reputable locksmiths

Be aware of who is the locksmith company you choose, Below you can watch how locksmiths businesses doing tricks and charging you for unnecessary work.

How fast it will take to sell your home quickly while increasing its value?

Any seasoned real estate agent should be able to tell you how fast it will take to sell your home (if not, it may be time to get a new one), but the truth of the matter is, the length of time depends on the price, location, and current state of the market. Another factor that should not be overlooked is the condition of your home, which is why it’s crucial that you give your property a little TLC before taking any photos, listing your property, and scheduling an open house. Here are some of the top projects that will help you sell your home quickly while increasing its value.

Update Anything That’s Dated

You’re not going to win over any potential buyers if your home looks like the set of an ‘80s sitcom, so you’ve got to update anything that looks dated. This includes lighting fixtures, hardware, cabinetry, paint, and flooring. Most people prefer hardwood floors — even in the kitchen — but the bedroom is divided between those who want hardwood and those who prefer carpeting. Keep in mind that if you have hardwood floors under the carpet, it can be less expensive to refinish them than it would be to replace the carpeting. If this is not the case, definitely update the carpet if it looks tired and worn. If your furniture sticks out like a sore thumb after all of these efforts, consider removing it and renting pieces from a professional stager.

Remove Wallpaper

Potential buyers are turned off by wallpaper for a couple of reasons. First, it’s really taste-specific — not everyone is into mallard ducks or delicate florals. Second, it can be a sign of work or maintenance once it starts peeling and/or becomes stained with age. There are several different methods of removing wallpaper, but it really depends on what type of paper you have. If you have the traditional version, then it will take a little more elbow grease to remove.

Once that project is complete and the surface is clean, give the walls a fresh coat of paint. Colors that appeal to buyers include earth tones (think shades of brown, green, orange, and some reds), neutrals like cream, gray, and soothing shades of blue. Whatever colors you choose, make sure they match your home, including any wood trim and/or molding.

Clean Up Your Yard

At the very least, make sure your lawn is mowed, the weeds are pulled, and the bushes and trees are pruned. However, if you really want to up your curb appeal, put in a little extra effort with projects such as power washing the siding, walkways, and driveway; cleaning up your porch and adding a few decorative pots with flowers; cleaning the exterior windows; repainting the front door; reinstall new locks; replacing the lighting fixtures and mailbox, and updating address numbers. Many potential buyers also look to see if a home has a patio, so consider adding one that appropriately matches the size of your yard.

Make sure you do a thorough deep cleaning of your home before the showings begin. And, remember, your cleaning days aren’t over until your home is sold: once your home hits the market, daily cleaning is necessary to keep carpets and floors (and any other high traffic areas) tidy. Cut down on the time it takes to clean your carpets and floors by upgrading your vacuum if you’ve had the same model for years. If you do upgrade, you may consider a cordless model – not only does it prevent any tripping hazards, it’s lighter, makes the task less time consuming, is easier to store, and is easier to zip from room-to-room and floor-to-floor. Read up on the best models available to make sure you’re getting the one that’s right for you.

Remember that potential buyers look at everything, so don’t neglect little things such as furniture and carpet stains; dusty fan blades, blinds, and air conditioner; a dull kitchen sink; grimy grout; oily dust in the kitchen; a dirty oven; dingy appliances; a dirty toilet; and odors of any kind. If you pay attention to the small details and make sure your home looks up-to-date and spotless, you’ll have potential buyers knocking on your door in no time.

Author

Suzie Wilson is an interior designer with more than 20 years of experience. What started as a hobby (and often, a favor to friends) turned into a passion for creating soothing spaces in homes of every size and style. While her goal always includes making homes look beautiful, her true focus is on fashioning them into serene, stress-free environments that inspire tranquility in all who enter. The Ultimate Guide to Prepping Your Home for an Open House is filled with tips, tricks, and other advice based on Suzie’s years of experience in interior home design that will set you up for success.

Need a Locksmith all Now 818-900-1017

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Only use reputable locksmiths

Be aware of who is the locksmith company you choose, Below you can watch how locksmiths businesses doing tricks and charging you for unnecessary work.