Your Guide to Making It Look Like You're Home When You're Actually Away

An unkempt yard or exterior can be a dead giveaway that no one's home. To avoid this, arrange for a trusted friend, neighbor, or professional service to mow the lawn, trim the bushes and maintain the garden. Additionally, during the winter months, have someone clear the snow from your driveway and walkways.

Having a car parked in the driveway can create the impression that someone is home. If you have multiple vehicles, leave one parked in the driveway before your departure. Alternatively, you could ask a neighbor or friend to occasionally park their car in your driveway, simulating regular activity.

An overflowing mailbox or a pile of packages on the doorstep is a surefire sign that no one's been home for a while. To avoid this telltale sign, have a trusted friend or neighbor collect your mail and packages regularly. Alternatively, you can pause mail, newspaper and package deliveries or have them sent to an alternate location, such as a friend's or family member's address.

Investing in smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely is a game-changer when it comes to making your home look occupied. With just a few taps on your smartphone or a pre-programmed schedule, you can turn lights on and off, creating the illusion of someone moving about the house. Plus, you can even mimic regular lighting patterns, making the home appear genuinely lived-in.

Outdoor motion-sensor lights not only serve as a deterrent to nighttime prowlers, but also simulate activity around your home. When triggered by movement, these lights will illuminate, giving the impression that someone is present and active on the property.

If you're planning an extended trip, consider hiring a house sitter to stay at your home while you're away. A live-in sitter can maintain regular routines, such as bringing in the mail, opening and closing curtains and even parking their car in the driveway. For shorter vacations, you could arrange for a house sitter to check in on your home periodically, ensuring that everything looks lived-in and secure.