When was the last time you considered the value of the items in your home? It would be nice to assume that your personal belongings are safe and well-protected inside the four walls of your home, but there may be steps you can take to protect your most expensive and valuable possessions better. Check out these five practical tips from Murphy Door about how to protect your valuables.
1. Make a Home Inventory
First and foremost, it's important to recognize what valuable pieces you own. This can be as simple as going from room to room and videotaping or writing down the pieces that cost the most or are particularly valuable to you (such as a piece of artwork that your grandmother gave you). Don't forget to include:
- Furniture: It's not a surprise that quality furniture isn't cheap. This is especially true for large or frequently used pieces, such as a sectionals and dining room sets.
- Clothing: If you love to shop for clothes, you know how pricey some items can be. From designer handbags and shoes to vintage jackets and jeans, what's hanging in your closet can really add up!
- Sports Equipment: As more people strive to live a healthier lifestyle, investing in expensive at-home workout equipment, such as stationary bikes and treadmills, has become commonplace.
- Sentimental Pieces: Everyone owns things that may not cost much money but are still valuable (sometimes even priceless). Gifts from loved ones and photographs are often more valuable than our most expensive belongings and should be treated as such.
2. Have Your Valuables Appraised
After you have a list of the most expensive belongings in your home, it's a good idea to have them professionally appraised. This will let you know exactly how much your items are worth. Items that are worth appraising include:
- Jewelry: Whether you love to stay on top of the latest jewelry trends or you've accumulated a family heirloom or two over the years, chances are your jewelry collection is worth more than you realize.
- Electronics: Now more than ever, electronics have become a staple in homes big and small. Laptops, televisions, tablets, and video game systems can be found in virtually every home across the country.
3. Check Your Insurance Policy
An essential element of how to protect your valuables is preparing for the worst. If your valuable items aren't insured, they should be. Check in with your insurance agent to see what your homeowners or renter’s insurance covers. Make sure it covers replacement value for your most expensive items. If some of your valuables aren't covered, such as your jewelry and electronics, consider adding a rider to include them.
4. Invest in a Home Security System
Nowadays, having a home security system is a must. With so many options to choose from, including ones with live stream cameras that can be viewed at any time from anywhere on your phone, security systems are a great way to protect both your home and your valuables. Knowing what's going on at your home when you're not there will give you an added sense of peace you'll be sure to appreciate.
5. Keep Your Valuables Hidden
Hiding your valuables behind a hidden door is an effortless yet practical way to keep them safe. After all, no one can steal jewelry, clothing, or your other pricey belongings if they don't know they are there! Storing your expensive pieces and meaningful possessions is easy with the help of Murphy Door. A beautiful hidden door can help you keep your valuables secure while maintaining a comfortable, attractive home.
Knowing how to protect your valuables will give you peace of mind, and we're here to help. Visit us online today to browse our large selection of customizable hidden doors.
