10 home security hacks that will give you peace of mind – realestate.com.au

For homeowners, few things are more important than feeling safe in their home. But home security doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive; By making a few small changes, you can enjoy greater peace of mind every day.

Home security isn’t just about locks and lights – it’s about giving you confidence that your home, your family and your neighborhood are protected, especially when you’re away from home.

The good news is that there are plenty of clever hacks that can improve security without spending a lot of money.

The key? By combining small, simple changes with the smart technology of a Ring video doorbell.

Here are 10 practical ways to make your home feel safer, while minimizing disruption to your daily routine.

1. Illuminate access points

Invaders prefer cover in the darkness, so lighting is your first line of defense.

Motion-activated or solar-powered lighting at doors, gates and side aisles are easy to install and make it much more difficult for anyone to approach unnoticed.

Combine them with one Ring Spotlight Camera or Floodlight Camera with motion-activated lights for extra visibility in the dark, plus instant motion alerts that show exactly what the trigger has done. When the lights come on at 2 a.m., know if it’s an unwanted visitor or just the neighbor’s cat.

“Lighting is one of the simplest deterrents,” Ring spokesman Mark Fletcher says.

“In combination with smart security cameras or a video doorbell, it becomes much more difficult for everyone to move through your building unseen.”

2. Strengthen doors and locks

A strong deadbolt and reinforced strike plate are inexpensive upgrades that will immediately make doors more difficult to force open.

It is also worth checking and/or replacing the standard screws that come with most doors; they are often short and thin, making them easy to kick.

“Replacing them with longer, sturdy screws is a quick DIY fix that adds strength where it matters most,” says Mark.

3. Invest in real safety

Fake or decoy cameras are an inexpensive way to make your home appear protected, but they rarely look like the real thing.

Investing in real security, like a Ring Video Doorbell, not only looks like a good security system, it acts like one too.

“Most burglaries are opportunistic,” Mark explains. “Visible security systems are often enough to send potential intruders elsewhere.”

And if you want to improve your home security even further, combine your Ring Video Doorbell with sensor lighting, a sturdy gate lock and clear house numbers – for extra deterrence.

“Visible signs of security make a property less attractive to someone looking for easy targets.”

4. Upgrade your doorbell experience

Traditional doorbells only tell you that someone is present once they arrive at your door.

With a Ring Video Doorbell you can see visitors before they knock. You can talk to them whether you’re at home, work, or on vacation, using the Ring app on your mobile device.

That visibility and control turns simple hacks into a comprehensive home security system.

“Peace of mind comes from trust,” says Mark.

“Being able to see, hear and speak to whoever is at your door – wherever you are – is what truly empowers homeowners.”

5. Don’t look at windows

Simple tools such as window locks, sash jammers or security film can make glass much more difficult to tamper with.

Leaving the windows ajar is like giving thieves unhindered access to your home. Always close or lock windows when you leave. Photo: Getty

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A custom-cut plug or broom handle placed in the tracks of sliding doors or windows makes it almost impossible to open them with force.

“It’s a cheap, high-impact hack that works immediately,” says Mark.

Adding transparent curtains also prevents prying eyes from peeking in, especially when you’re not at home.

6. Create the illusion of presence

Even when you’re away, you can make it seem like you’re at home.

Mark says timers on lights, smart plugs or simply leaving a pair of boots at the front door are all subtle tricks.

“Making your house look lived in is one of the best hacks,” says Mark. “It’s all about creating uncertainty. If an intruder isn’t sure you’re gone, he or she is less likely to be at risk.”

As an added layer, your Ring Doorbell allows you to answer visitors remotely, making it feel like you’re inside.

7. Get to know your neighbors

A connected community is one of the best security tools available.

Introduce yourself to your neighbors and agree to simple favors like picking up each other’s mail or even parking in each other’s driveway while you’re away.

These small actions make a home look occupied and discourage opportunistic crime.

“We know from our customers that neighborhood connections are powerful,” says Mark. “Sharing awareness makes everyone in the neighborhood feel safer.”

8. Protect packages and deliveries

Package theft is on the rise, especially in urban areas.

A Ring the doorbell This allows you to see when deliveries arrive and talk directly to couriers about where to leave them safely.

You can also set alerts so that you receive a notification as soon as a package arrives at your door. Or if you are unlucky and your delivery goes out unintentionally, you can take immediate action.

9. Plant ‘defensive’ green

Thorny shrubs such as bougainvillea, roses or even cacti planted under windows make difficult – and painful – hiding places.

They blend into your landscape and add a natural layer of protection.

But Mark warns against letting your garden become too overgrown.

“High hedges and overgrown shrubs may look nice, but they can also be perfect hiding places,” warns Mark.

Regularly pruning the gardens around windows and entrances will keep your home clearly visible and discourage opportunistic intruders.

10. Use smart speaker routines

Set your Alexa or Google Home to automatically turn on lights, play music or even mimic voices when you’re away.

Combined with the ability to answer your Ring Doorbell remotely, it creates a convincing illusion that someone is always home.

By switching on the interior lighting at a certain time, it can appear as if someone is home. Photo: Getty

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“Smart home technology is most powerful when it works together,” the spokesperson said. “Integrating your video doorbell or security camera with lights and speakers adds additional layers of security without complexity.”

Increasing the security of your home doesn’t have to be tiring, because these practical steps – such as installing a Ring video doorbell – are quick and easy and can help keep you and your family safe and hassle-free.