If you're planning to hit the road this summer for a quick getaway or a lengthy family sabbatical, there are a few things you might want to plan on in order to care for your home while you're away. Though this list is certainly not 100% comprehensive, it does serve as a nice checklist for the highlights.
-Pets...make sure you arrange boarding ahead of time. Kennels are booked early and there's nothing like stressing over whether or not your pet is going to be well-loved while you're out of town. Shots and records need to be current and printed prior to arrival in the event your pet has not boarded a particular kennel. If pets are staying home or staying with family/friends, make sure you leave specific instructions on care along with ample food and treats. It's usually a good idea to have a visitation or two prior to your trip to introduce both parties.
-Mail...Have a trusted neighbor, friend or family to check your mail every other day or request your local post office to hold your mail until you return. This is a free service not often used.
-Plants...You've worked too hard this Spring on your flowers to let them burn in the hot Summer sun. Pay a neighborhood kid or find a service that waters and/or weeds flower beds and gardens.
-Thermostat...Set your thermostat at a higher temperature to prevent unnecessary running while you aren't there. However, avoid the temptation to turn completely off as it will take longer and require the system to run harder when you return to get things back to a normal comfort level.
-Refrigerator...It's a great time to throw items away that might expire while you're away. Nothing worse than coming home to molded, smelly food in the fridge.
-Laundry...Have the majority of your laundry completed prior to leaving because when you come home, you know there will be LOTS to do. No need to double the burden. If you don't have the time look into laundromats where you can drop off laundry for wash n' fold that's paid for by the pound.
-Yard...If you are going to be away for longer than a week, find a yard maintenance person who can trim the grass. Nothing says, "I'm not home" like an unkempt yard. No reason to invite thieves into your home.
-Drive By...Some local police departments will actually drive-by your home while you are away while on their regular beat. Ask your local police department if this is a service they offer.
-Security System...If you have a security system TURN IT ON!! If you don't, give me a call and I can put you in touch with some companies that monitor and install very reasonably. The added comfort of knowing your home is monitored while you're away is worth every penny. Some even offer video activation so that you can check in on pets and the house. Not to mention, most insurance companies usually give you a discount if you have a system.
Happy Trails to You!!
Brooke
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