Last Minute Summer Getaway?

Here’s How to Protect Your Home While You Travel

For many homeowners, July is the perfect time to escape for an extended vacation or a seasonal retreat.
But while you're enjoying time away, your home shouldn't be left behind without a plan, especially high-end properties that come with unique responsibilities. So before you leave, take these proactive  steps to protect your investment:

• Engage a Home Watch or Estate Management Service - Hiring a professional home watch company or estate manager ensures someone is regularly checking in. Services can include walk-throughs, mail collection, pool checks, HVAC monitoring, and emergency response coordination.

• Enhance Your Smart Security System - Ensure your system includes exterior and interior cameras (with remote access), smart door locks, water leak sensors and motion-activated lighting. Before leaving, test all devices and update access codes.

• Schedule Landscape & Pool Maintenance - Overgrown lawns and murky pools can quickly stand out. Pre-arrange weekly landscaping and/or pool services helps maintain curb appeal and avoid HOA notices or damage from heat and drought.

• Set Lighting & Shades on Automated Schedules - Create the illusion that someone is home by programming your lights and shades to operate on varied timers. Lutron and Control4 systems offer this with ease, especially when paired with a concierge smart home provider.

• Don’t Forget the Refrigerator & Ice Maker - Before you leave, empty perishables, clean out the fridge, and turn off ice makers. These are common culprits for summertime leaks or foul odors.  

• Leave a Trusted Contact List - If you’re not using a management service, make sure a neighbor, assistant or family member has alarm company contacts, your HVAC/plumbing/electrician team, and a key or access code. Be sure to leave them instructions for emergencies and notify your alarm company that you’ll be away.

Peace of mind while you're away starts with a little preparation. With the right planning,
your home will be just as you left it...secure, well-maintained, and ready to welcome you back.

If you’re even thinking about buyer or selling this year, let’s have a quick chat. 

No pressure—just insights on what’s happening and how you can take advantage.

Text me at 713-703-3316, and let’s talk.

P.S. Know someone thinking about moving in 2025? Forward this blog post to them.
I’d be happy to help them plan ahead and be ready when the time is right.

Click HERE to see the full Jo Anne Johnson Real Estate Group newsletter, the Area Market Report July 2025

Be sure to check out the Houston Association of Realtors Explore the Woodlands Master Planned Community

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