Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa Real Estate Investor Magazine March 2018 | Page 31
“What is needed is an early warning and detection system,
picking up suspicious behaviour on the outside of the bound-
ary wall,”explains Alves.
Adrian Goslett, CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa,
lists a few other security measures to take into consideration:
“Security goes beyond the property itself. If the property is
within a sectional title complex, ensure that the complex
as a whole has sufficient security measures. Access control,
security guards on site, or patrols. There might be cameras
or surveillance of some kind, which will vastly increase the
security of the development.” Another aspect to consider is
lighting: “ Dark areas make it easier for intruders to approach
and gain access unnoticed. Outdoor floodlights can mitigate
the risk to some degree, and motion-sensor models are a val-
ue-for-money, effective option,” Goslett explains.
Stuart Clarkson, Fidelity ADT Managing Executive,
reveals that they have seen the best success stories in areas
where residents have not only put in home security measures,
but suburb solutions. These include neighbourhood watches,
resident associations, installing camera networks in the area,
and a 24-hour neighbourhood guard. “Community forums
really do help retain property values and reduce crime. We
would like to encourage residents to get involved in their
communities and crime prevention initiatives. Not only will
it curb crime but could also boost your selling price when the
time comes,” Clarkson explains.
With security being an everyday concern for many, adding
the necessary precautions to your property will not only keep
those living in it safer, but also increase the value and appeal
to buyers if you decide to sell.
TOP SECURITY TIPS
No matter the location of your property, there are
simple steps to follow to ensure your investment
is safe.
• Clean up Get rid of any overgrown plants that
could be handy hiding spots.
• Perimeter This is your first line of defence.
Ensure your property is walled or fenced, and
install beams or electric wiring if necessary.
• Doors and Windows Install adequate burglar
bars to all doors and windows. In the case of
sliding doors, ensure they are fitted with spacer
blocks to prevent them from being lifted off
their tracks.
• Lights Install motion-sensing lights around
your property, eliminating dark corners.
• Support If you choose to install an alarm sys-
tem, ensure that you’ll be receiving adequate
support from the team.
• Change the locks When moving into a new
property, replace all locks and change any
alarm codes immediately.
• Most burglars are looking for an easy target.
Display an alarm sign or other warning signs to
deter opportunists.
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SOURCES
Fidelity ADT, RE/MAX, Axis Communications
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine MARCH 2018
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