Keeping Your Home Safe While You Travel: A Real Estate Wrangler's Guide

Keeping Your Home Safe While You Travel: A Real Estate Wrangler's Guide

Hey y’all—it’s Melissa Elliott, your North & East Texas Real Estate Wrangler, and today we’re talking about something near and dear to every homeowner’s heart: keeping your home safe while you’re off enjoying a little R&R.

Whether you're heading out to a rodeo, hitting the lake, or taking the kids on a much-needed summer getaway, the last thing you want is to be worried about what’s going on back home. So here’s my tried-and-true checklist to make sure your home stays just as safe as you left it—no matter how far the trail takes you.

1. Don’t Broadcast Your Vacation Like a Town Crier

I get it—vacation pics are fun to post. But wait to share them after you get back. Announcing your travel plans on social media is like putting a big ol’ sign in your yard that says, “Nobody’s home!”

Wrangler Tip: If you’re a mom like me, assign one of the kids “social media manager” duties to post throwbacks when you're back home safe and sound.

2. Lock It All Down (Yes, Even the Chicken Coop Door)

Obvious? Sure. But you’d be surprised how many folks forget to check the back gate or garage side door. Do a full sweep—windows, pet doors, sheds, and even those sneaky attic access panels in the garage.

Bonus Tip: Install deadbolts on all exterior doors and make sure your locks are solid. This ain’t the Wild West—we’ve got better options now.

3. Make It Look Like You're Home

A dark, quiet house for days is basically an open invitation. Set timers on lights, leave a car in the driveway, and have a neighbor pick up your packages or newspapers.

Wrangler Trick: Ask a trusted neighbor to occasionally move your trash bins or park in your driveway. Motion-sensor porch lights are also your friend!

4. Invest in a Home Security System

There are tons of great systems now that let you check in right from your phone. Whether it’s Ring, SimpliSafe, or another setup, having video doorbells and cameras adds peace of mind.

Pro Move: Add signs or stickers in visible spots to let folks know they’re on camera. Sometimes, the illusion of protection is protection in itself.

5. Don’t Forget the Living Critters

Got pets staying behind? Make sure whoever’s checking in on them knows your routines, emergency vet info, and how to reset that dang alarm system if it goes off when they come in.

And if your “pets” are more like goats, chickens, or barn cats—well, that’s just Texas living. Leave detailed instructions for your ranch-sitter too.

Final Word from the Real Estate Wrangler:

A safe home is a happy home—and when you get back, you want your house to feel just like you left it: secure, cozy, and still standing tall. If you’re planning a longer trip and want a pre-travel home checklist (or maybe you’re thinking of selling after you get back!), shoot me a message. I’ve got a rodeo of resources to keep your real estate journey smooth as sweet tea.

Until then, safe travels—and may your roads be open, your boots stay dusty, and your home stay safe. 

Melissa Elliott, Realtor®
The Real Estate Wrangler of North & East Texas
📲 Call or text me anytime: 214-450-5473
📍 Serving families, mamas, and movers all across Texas—because Buying & Selling Ain’t My First Rodeo!