Whether you’re a landlord managing multiple rental properties or a tenant looking to make your rental feel like home, home security is a priority for everyone involved. Ensuring the safety of your rental property protects not only your investment but also your tenants’ well-being. At the same time, for international students coming to the U.S., finding affordable housing can be challenging. Understanding how to secure a property while navigating the rental market is key to a smooth rental experience.
In this article, we’ll offer some essential home security tips for both property owners and renters, while also providing helpful advice for international students on how to find affordable housing in the U.S. Plus, we’ll highlight how RentYard can make finding the right rental property easier and more efficient.
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Home Security Tips for Rental Properties: Keeping Your Investment Safe
As a property owner, you want to protect your investment, minimize risks, and ensure that your tenants feel safe and secure in their homes. Good home security practices not only protect the property but also improve tenant satisfaction, reduce turnover, and prevent costly damage. Here are key security tips every property owner should consider.
1. Install a High-Quality Security System
One of the most effective ways to protect your rental property is by investing in a security system. Modern security systems can include alarm monitoring, security cameras, and motion sensors to deter criminals and keep an eye on the property.
- What to Do: Install smart security cameras at key entry points such as doors and windows. Many systems now integrate with smartphones, allowing you to monitor the property remotely.
- Why It Matters: A visible security system serves as a deterrent to potential burglars. It also provides tenants with peace of mind knowing they are being protected.
- Tip: Consider providing tenants with access to the security system (with proper permissions), so they can activate/deactivate it as needed.
2. Upgrade Locks and Deadbolts
An essential part of home security is ensuring that all doors and windows are properly secured. Older locks can be easily compromised, so it’s important to regularly check and upgrade them as necessary.
- What to Do: Install high-quality deadbolts and smart locks on all doors. Consider keyless entry systems for added convenience and security.
- Why It Matters: Upgraded locks reduce the risk of unauthorized entry and provide a higher level of security, especially in areas with higher crime rates.
- Tip: Change the locks between tenants to ensure that old keys cannot be used to gain access.
3. Provide Adequate Lighting
Outdoor lighting is an often overlooked yet essential element of home security. Well-lit exterior areas reduce the chances of break-ins or vandalism.
- What to Do: Install motion-activated lights around the perimeter of your rental property, especially near doors, driveways, and walkways. Make sure these lights are on timers or dusk-to-dawn sensors to ensure they are always lit at night.
- Why It Matters: Criminals are less likely to target properties that are well-lit. Lighting also helps tenants feel safer when coming home after dark.
- Tip: Ensure that tenants know how to use the outdoor lighting and that it is always in working condition.
4. Secure Windows and Sliding Glass Doors
Windows, particularly sliding glass doors, are common entry points for burglars. Adding extra layers of security to these areas will further reduce the risk of break-ins.
- What to Do: Use window locks, security bars, or shatterproof film to secure windows. For sliding doors, install security rods or bars to prevent them from being forced open.
- Why It Matters: Secure windows and sliding doors provide added protection against unauthorized entry while ensuring that tenants can comfortably enjoy fresh air and natural light.
- Tip: Remind tenants to lock all windows and doors before leaving the property and when they go to bed.
5. Encourage Tenant Awareness
While home security systems and physical upgrades are important, tenant awareness is a key factor in keeping a property safe. Encouraging tenants to take responsibility for their own safety can go a long way in preventing incidents.
- What to Do: Include security tips in the tenant welcome packet, such as locking doors and windows, being mindful of who is allowed access to the property, and reporting suspicious activity.
- Why It Matters: Empowered tenants who are proactive about security will help keep the property safe and report any issues promptly.
- Tip: Make sure your tenants have easy access to emergency contact numbers and know how to reach you for security-related concerns.
How to Find Affordable Housing as an International Student in the U.S.
For international students coming to study in the U.S., finding affordable housing can be a daunting task. Rental prices can vary significantly by city, and navigating the U.S. rental market can be confusing for those unfamiliar with local practices. Here are a few tips on how international students can successfully find budget-friendly accommodation.
1. Start Your Search Early
The earlier you start looking for housing, the more options you’ll have. Rental markets in many U.S. cities can be competitive, especially in popular student areas.
- Tip: Use online rental platforms like RentYard to search for rental properties that fit your budget. RentYard allows you to filter listings by price, location, and amenities, helping you find affordable rentals in cities across the U.S.
2. Consider Shared Housing or Roommates
One of the most cost-effective ways to find affordable housing is to share a rental property with roommates. This is a popular option for students and can significantly lower the overall cost of rent and utilities.
- Tip: Use RentYard’s roommate search feature to find other students or individuals looking for roommates. You can filter by location, rent price, and other preferences to find a good match.
3. Look for Student Housing Options
Many universities offer on-campus housing or partner with local property managers to provide affordable off-campus student housing. These properties are designed to be affordable and convenient for students.
- Tip: Check with your university’s housing office for recommendations on affordable student housing in the area. Some universities also offer private dorms or apartments with flexible lease terms.
4. Explore Neighborhoods Outside of Campus
Living outside of the immediate campus area can sometimes lead to more affordable housing options. While this may increase your commute time, you might find more affordable rent in nearby neighborhoods or suburbs.
- Tip: Use RentYard’s map search feature to find rental listings that are located near public transportation options. This can help you balance affordability with convenience.
5. Check for Special Housing Programs
Some cities offer subsidized housing programs for students, which can help reduce rent costs. These programs are designed to make housing more affordable for students, particularly those on limited budgets.
- Tip: Look for student housing subsidies or other affordable housing programs in your area. Your university may be able to provide recommendations or links to housing assistance programs.
6. Be Aware of Rental Scams
Unfortunately, rental scams are common, especially for international students unfamiliar with U.S. housing practices. Always verify the legitimacy of listings before making payments or signing a lease.
- Tip: Use trusted platforms like RentYard, which verify all listings to ensure they are legitimate and secure. Always visit the property in person and never send money without confirming the details.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a property owner looking to secure your rental property or an international student seeking affordable housing in the U.S., ensuring safety and finding the right property are key to a successful rental experience. By following home security tips such as installing security systems, upgrading locks, and providing adequate lighting, you can protect both your investment and your tenants. For international students, platforms like RentYard can make finding affordable housing easier by offering listings that suit various budgets, locations, and preferences.
Looking to Rent? Try RentYard
If you’re an international student looking for affordable housing, start your search with RentYard to find rental options that meet your needs. RentYard makes it easy to filter by price, location, and amenities, helping you find the perfect home at the right price. Begin your search today and secure your new home in the U.S. with ease!