House

Home thefts are not a new concern, but they are on the rise.

The first preventive steps anyone should take are ensuring proper outdoor lighting and securing secure all windows, doors and vehicles. Consider using bright LED lights that are motion-sensor activated. When the lights come on due to motion, you are alerted that something—or someone—is nearby. They also can startle someone who is not supposed to be on your property.

Did you know that every year there are as many as 200,000 cooking-related fires, which cause hundreds of deaths and injuries throughout the U.S.? Last year in Virginia, there were 69 home fire fatalities.²

Classic older homes have lots of charm. But not everything gets better with age. More mature homes can have problems such as plaster walls in need of repair or outdated systems that are hazardous. We have a list of home ages and potential problems to help you treat that older home with TLC.

If a real estate agent tries to sell you a home with “attractive nuisances”—the legal term for potentially dangerous structures and features children find irresistible, like pools, ponds and swing sets—proceed with your eyes wide open. Attractive nuisances can quickly become liabilities.

Do-it-yourself projects can save you money, but if you’re buying someone else’s DIY home, there are some precautions you should take before signing on the dotted line.

When buying a home, hiring a qualified inspector is a no-brainer. However, home inspection certification is voluntary, so be careful who you hire.

Keep the Sparkle, Avoid the Sparks with Safe Holiday Lights. Add a festive touch to your home inside and out with holiday lights! But before you start decorating for the holidays, read up on holiday lights safety.

Cooking, heating, holiday decorations and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.