Home is where the heart is! And a part of having a home you love is making sure you feel safe and secure. This is why home security features are more popular than ever among homebuyers or those who just recently purchased a home.

If you just purchased a new home and it's not quite as buttoned-up as you'd like, then it's time to make changes. Our real estate agents know that home security features are both impressive and functional. Consider these security updates.

• Check Your Window Locks
  People often focus on their doors in terms of security, but a lot of break-ins happen through windows. Window locks can fail and become less functional as windows age. So, especially if your home has older windows, it's a good idea to walk around and check all of the window locks.
  
  If you find window locks that don't work, you have two options. You can have that window replaced, or you can buy an aftermarket window lock to add. Most hardware stores sell them. Also, make sure everyone in your home knows to lock the windows before they leave home.
  
  
• Install a WiFi Camera
  WiFi cameras, or smart cameras, have come a long way in recent years. You can set one up near your home's main door. You'll get an alert on your phone whenever someone walks within the camera's range. If you look at the video and see someone trying to break in, you can easily contact the police. You'll even have the video footage to help them catch the perpetrator.
  
  If you have multiple doors, set up a WiFi camera at each door. The apps associated with these systems make it easy to monitor multiple cameras.
  
  
• Install Motion-Activated Lights
  Lights are a really simple deterrent for criminals. If a potential thief is walking up to your home and a light suddenly kicks on, they're likely to be scared off.
  
  You can purchase motion-activated lights at most hardware stores. If you don't already have wiring to connect them to, consider hiring an electrician to install them. Also, keep in mind that many WiFi security cameras come with a built-in motion-activated light for this purpose.
  
  
• Add a Deadbolt
  Deadbolts have been around for years, but they remain a tried-and-true way to secure your home's doors. You can lock the deadbolt to keep yourself and your family safer when you're home.
  
  Today, there are even deadbolts you can connect to your smart home monitoring system. With this technology, you can lock and unlock them remotely. This makes it easy to let your kids in the door if they get home before you do or to let a trusted friend or family member into your home while you're away.
  
  
• Adjust Your Door's Position
  Look closely at the way your door sits in its frame. Is there a gap between the door and the sash? Is that gap wide enough for someone to stick an object, such as a credit card, down? If so, you will want to adjust the way your door sits in the frame in order to close that gap.
  
  Often, you can adjust a door's position simply by tightening or loosening some screws that hold the door on its hinges. If this does not work, consider contacting a door company or handyman service.

With the tips above, your new home will feel like a fortress. If you're still looking for Albany homes for sale or Corvallis homes for sale, feel free to contact us. We'll help you navigate the housing market and find the perfect place for your family.