Condo living is oftentimes associated with independent living. Living aloneand independently can be so much fun, exciting, and liberating. However, it can
also be risky and scary. Many people are still worried about staying safe while
inside their condo.
Luckily, there are a lot of information available on security solutions and condo safety tips, not to mention the standard security protocols and camera system available in condominium properties. There are many things you can do to keep yourself safe in your condo. Here are some of the tips to stay safe when living in your condo.
If you live in a condo, whether you are a renter who move frequently or a first-time condo owner, you have to do your research on the property location. The best way to stay safe when living in a condo is to rent or purchase in a property that is located in a safe neighborhood, but you have to remember that low crime does not mean no crime.
The first thing that you should do is to research on the area. You should check the areas in the neighborhood that you will be traveling to frequently. Of course you do not want to feel uncomfortable every time that you go outside the condo building, right?
Get your feet on the ground and explore the area as if you live there. Take note also of what other kinds of buildings and business are near the condo property as well as the amount of noise pollution in the area. Visit at different times of the day, at different days of the week. Check out nearby shops and restaurants.
Does it offer easy walkability? How safe is the area? There are many crime maps and statistics available online that can help guide your decisions. As you walk around, check for outdoor security cameras that will provide an additional layer of security
Also, when choosing the condo property itself, check on how secure the general entrances are. Is there a front lobby with security? Do they have tight security? Are there CCTV cameras within the condo building? Do they require a key or a numerical code? Assess if the entrances allow easy access to anyone, if yes, then the condo building most likely is not the best bet.
If at any point, you feel uncomfortable walking around, especially at night, then you may want to re-assess whether the location is a good place to live.
Moreover, before you move in to your new condo, you should inspect all of the locks in the condo unit. Make sure that the locks have been changed since the previous tenant for you never know who may have lived there before you and this will help protect you against any harmful situations.
Once you have moved in, it is important to keep in mind and practice safe living habits. Make sure to always lock your doors and windows. If your condo door does not have any double lock nor alarm system, check if you can have a smart entrance lock which usually features key card/RFID, fingerprint or passcode, that can be accessed through an app. Having a smart entrance lock ensures that you stay secure as this system has a double lock feature and a mechanical lock inside.
Gone are the days of duplicating machine keys or hiding a spare key under the doormat or in flower pots.
Aside from this, you also have to get to know your neighbors. The more people you know in the condo building, the easier for you to recognize strangers. Your neighbors can also help you keep an eye on your condo unit while you are away. However, you have to be careful too about giving your personal information out to them.
If you see someone you do not recognize and your instinct tells you that something is off, listen to yourself and remain cautious. If someone knocks on your door, look through your peephole first. If you do not have one, it might be best for you to buy a smart video doorbell.
This is widely available in the market today and is very convenient to use. The smart video doorbell works like a personal security guard that monitors your doorstep. You can see who rings the doorbell through the application connected to the device. It can also alert you through phone notification or call once a person rings your door. Moreover, it can detect outside movements and lets you track visitors or accommodate them even if you are not home. How cool is that?
Another tip is to install blinds or curtains in your condo to help keep nosey passersby from eyeing your unit. Remember, the more foot traffic in the building means more potential onlookers, especially if your unit can easily be seen outside.
If the property management team allows, get a dog with you in the unit. A dog is not only a man’s best friend, but it can also keep your unit safe. Dogs bark to let you know that an intruder is in your home. However, keep in mind that a dog is not an alternative to security system.
Lastly, if you notice suspicious people or activity within your condo building, then do not hesitate to report it to security. Make sure that you also let your neighbors and property manager know if there is something strange going on.
You have to remember that your safety should be a priority so you can truly make your condo unit a comfortable home in the city.
If you are looking for a safe condo property for your own use or for investment, Vista Residences, the condominium arm of the country’s largest homebuilder Vista Land & Lifescapes, Inc. offers ready for occupancy and preselling condominiumprojects that are strategically located within inner-city areas, in close proximity to developed business districts and prestigious universities.
For more information on Vista Residences, email us at [email protected], follow@VistaResidencesOfficial on Facebook or call the Marketing Office at 0999 886 4262 / 0917 582 5167.
