Property.CoZa Homefront

Plan your year-end holiday appropriately by considering the safety of your home.

1. Check your alarm
December is an exceptionally busy time for alarm companies, which is why it’s best to test your alarm system and notify the relevant people at least three weeks before you leave.

2. Notify appropriate parties
While you have your security company on the phone, advise them of your holiday plans and ensure they have the following (updated) info in case something happens while you’re away:
• All key holders' contact information
• Details of your domestic workers, gardeners, house sitters or anybody staying on/looking after the property in your absence.

3. Keep your home safe
Consider smart lighting, ask somebody to bring your mail in (and maybe even do an occasional sweeping of your driveway), install a security system, set your lights on timers, etc.

4. Don’t brag online
Social media is not the space to brag about your travel plans. You never know who’s reading what on Facebook or Twitter.

5. Hide gifts and packages
Think about those big empty boxes placed in your driveway. Do you think it’s wise to advertise, on your own kerb no less, how much you’ve spent on your year-end shopping?

6. Extend seasonal greetings to neighbours
Neighbours who look out for each other make communities safer and stronger.

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Have Courage!

With the mercury rising, summer is a great time to show off your pool and host unforgettable parties with friends and family. Here are 6 upgrades that you can consider.

1) Replace the pool lights
Change the colour of your pool lights. It creates a mesmerizing effect when the light bounces off the water.

2) Add tile detail to your pool floor
This might require some elbow grease but tile detail is a must this summer. The great thing about adding tiles to your pool floor is that you can create the design yourself.

3) Slide into the summer
A waterslide adds an element of fun to an already exciting feature in your backyard. It is the perfect way to keep the kids (and the adults) entertained when you have those awesome braais at home.

4) Install a waterfall
Who doesn’t enjoy relaxing by the pool and listening to the sound of water flowing gently?

5) Add exotic plants next to the pool
By adding plants around your pool, you liven it up a bit and add some colour to the area. Palm trees always look amazing and give a proper tropical vibe in your backyard. Mix it up with plants of different colours and textures, and see how the area transforms into something magical.

6) Remember to cover up
Not you, of course! We’re talking about your pool. Covers come in different types and shapes. You can get a budget-friendly net or safety cover, or you can have an automatic cover installed. Either way, it is excellent protection and keeps the kids safe, too.

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