Quite often my clients have raised the issue of home security when they are buying a home here in the Palm Springs area as a secondary residence. This is particularly true if they are contemplating the purchase of a property that is not part of a gated community where HOA (homeowners association) fees most likely include a security service of some sort. But if you aren’t part of a planned gated community, what do you do?
Now security can be a non-issue for second home buyers, as quite a few property care services have sprung up in the valley in recent years. They are more than happy to keep a watchful eye on your property. These services, called variously – Property Management, Home Concierge, Home Valet and Property Care, offer a wide variety of services at surprisingly affordable prices. For as little as $125 per month, you can have someone visit your home regularly to check on its condition, to inspect inside and out, to see that the pool is being cleaned, to check the landscaping irrigation system, to make sure that the driveway is clear and the mail box emptied. The service will also inspect the interior of the house and flush toilets, test appliances, and check on the A/C or heating system.
For an additional fee, they will even make the house ready for your occupancy, setting out patio furniture, stocking in fresh groceries prior to your arrival, and having linens clean and ready; upon your departure they will clean for you. If you choose to rent your property, the service can clean before and after the renters’ stay, as well. They would also represent you as the local contact for your alarm company, and act as liaison to repair services, if you wished.
Since we live in a resort community, it’s no surprise that services are available here to support the special needs of part-time residents. As you contemplate purchasing your second home, it’s good to know that these services are both readily available and affordable. If you’d like to know more, just drop me a line at dick@dicksakowicz.com, and I’ll recommend a few for you to consider.