When most people think about home security, they tend to focus on locks, alarms, and cameras. While these safeguards are essential, there are many other things you can do to prevent break-ins — without having to invest a lot of money.

Landscape Your Way to Safety
Well maintained landscaping can be a powerful deterrent to burglars. Overgrown trees and bushes provide perfect hiding spots for potential intruders. So, keep shrubs trimmed and ensure tree branches don’t offer easy access to upper-level windows.

Let There Be Light
A well-lit exterior can make your home an unattractive target for burglars. That doesn’t mean you need to illuminate your home like a Christmas tree 24/7! Instead, consider motion-activated lighting. It not only conserves energy but can startle and deter anyone trying to sneak around your property.

Silence the "No One's Home" Alarm
Heading on vacation? Hold your mail and newspaper deliveries, ask a neighbor to pick up flyers, and resist the urge to post your holiday pictures on social media. Don't let your absence become an open invitation for burglars!

The Bottom Line
Don’t rely entirely on gadgets and systems. Take a more comprehensive approach to home security and you’ll have more peace of mind when you’re away.

What do you do for your home security? Share your tips with us in the comments below!

Interest rates skyrocketed in 2023, and even as rates soften they may continue to be unpredictable. So, how do you manage your finances during such periods? Here are some helpful money-saving tips to consider.

Review and Reduce

Regularly review your monthly expenses. Are there any subscriptions or services you’re no longer using? Is there an unused gym membership or magazine subscription that can be cancelled? By trimming the fat from your budget, you’ll have more to put towards savings.

Build an Emergency Fund

When you have money set aside, you won’t have to dip into your line of credit or carry a credit card balance when something urgent comes up. Putting just a few dollars a week into a fund can add up over the year — and give you peace of mind.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Investing in energy-efficient appliances, windows, and even home insulation can lead to significant savings on utility bills over time. Additionally, some energy-efficient upgrades come with tax credits and other incentives.

Buy in Bulk

Watch out for sales on goods you purchase regularly, like breakfast cereal. If the discount is substantial, stock up. Over the year, this strategy can save hundreds on your grocery bill. Just be sure to pay attention to expiration dates!

Avoid Interest Charges

As much as possible, reduce or eliminate anything that charges interest. For example, pay credit cards by the due dates. (Note: credit card interest on cash advances often begins immediately.)

As you can see, making smart money decisions can help you ride out the current wave of interest rate uncertainty. What are your money saving strategies?