Selwyn Times: September 05, 2017

5
Keeping
safe during
open homes
Selling a home can be a stressful process, so it
makes sense to minimise any hassles wherever
possible. If you’ve taken all the sensible
precautions, you shouldn’t need to worry about
holding an open home.
There’s a lot to consider when putting
your home on show during the selling
process. While you want your property
to look attractive to potential buyers,
you don’t want them to advertise your
precious belongings to anyone with ill
intent. As in most circumstances, a bit of
common sense goes a long way.
To start with, you should feel completely
confident about your real estate agent.
Licensed real estate agents are bound by
the Code of Conduct, which means they
have a clear responsibility to safeguard
your property. If you have any concerns
about holding open homes, or having
viewings of your property, it’s important
to discuss these with the agent so you can
both feel comfortable. They can advise
you on any precautions to take as part of
preparing the property for sale.
When you’re getting ready to put the
property on the market, the New Zealand
Police National Crime Prevention
Centre recommends checking with your
insurance provider so you know what
your policy covers. Make sure you have
enough insurance to cover any potential
property damage, or any valuables. Let
trusted neighbours know the dates of any
upcoming open homes or viewings, and
ask them to keep an eye out for anything
unusual.
The Police also suggest that you store
any valuables well out of sight before you
hold your first open home, or make the
property available for viewing. The most
commonly stolen items include money,
jewellery, office equipment, clothing,
electronics, and firearms. Photograph
and record serial numbers (these can
also be uploaded to the SNAP website:
www.snap.org.nz).
It can be helpful to make a checklist to
streamline the process and ensure you
don’t overlook anything. It’s a good idea
to hide your calendars – open home
viewers don’t need to know when you
plan to be away, or where you’re planning
to go. Put away family photos, and lock
away any passports, spare keys, financial
statements and credit cards. Store any
alcohol and prescription drugs out of
sight and preferably out of the reach of
children.
On the day of the open home, it is best
to wait at the property until the agent
arrives so you can officially pass the
security responsibility to them. Be sure
to walk the agent through the property
and orient them as needed. Ask them if
you can help them close up at the end of
the open home. Together you can check
the property, including any storage areas
and outside spaces. Double check all the
locks on windows and doors to make sure
they are secured as they were before the
viewing started.
Selling a home can be a stressful process,
so it makes sense to minimise any hassles
wherever possible. If you’ve taken all the
sensible precautions, you shouldn’t need
to worry about holding an open home.
Escape to the Country!! Aylesbury Area
Situated in the Aylesbury area, this property
is within reach of many. Our Vendors have
enjoyed its space and privacy since 2003 and
now have new plans.
A warm 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers
a safe cosy environment situated on 7237 sqm
section (1.788 acres).
The property has established trees, excellent
2 bay shed plus numerous other out buildings
for those toys! Great areas for kids to play and
central to Kirwee, Darfield, West Melton and
even Rolleston. Come and view this fantastic
property before it is too late.
3 2 4
Offers Over $639,000
Open Home: 1:45pm - 2:30pm
10th September 2017
1062 Railway Road, West Melton
Ben Ryder
P: 03 423 1908
M: 0274 357 052