You don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your home safe. With some common-sense strategies and affordable tools, you can make your house a much tougher target for intruders. Here are some easy tips to help protect your home without breaking the bank.

1. Lock It Up

Make sure all doors and windows are locked, even when you’re at home. It might seem like a no-brainer, but a surprising number of break-ins happen because someone forgot to lock up. If you have sliding doors, put a rod or stick in the track to prevent them from being opened from the outside.

2. Install Basic Outdoor Lights

Outdoor lighting is an easy and affordable way to discourage burglars. Lights that automatically turn on when they sense movement are especially helpful. Place them around all doors and other entry points to light up any would-be intruders. These lights also help you navigate safely around your home at night.

3. Secure Your Doors and Windows

A strong door is essential for home security. Make sure your doors are solid and can’t be easily kicked in. Adding a deadbolt lock is another cheap and effective way to increase your security. For windows, you can install simple locks or even window bars if needed.

4. Get a Few Security Cameras

You don’t need a fancy camera system to keep an eye on things. Even a few simple, well-placed cameras can be a strong deterrent. Put them in spots that are easy to see, like over your front door or near any side entrances. You can check in on your home remotely using apps that work with basic cameras, adding a layer of protection when you’re not around.

5. Don’t Let Your Yard Hide Trouble

Overgrown bushes or trees near your windows can provide cover for someone trying to sneak in. Trim back any landscaping that blocks your windows or makes it easier for someone to hide. This doesn’t just improve security—it can make your home look nicer too.

6. Install a Smart Doorbell

A smart doorbell lets you see who’s at your door, even when you’re not home. Many models also let you talk to whoever is there. The presence of a camera can be enough to scare off someone with bad intentions, and you can record video if needed.

7. Make It Look Like You’re Home

When you’re away on vacation or even out for the day, make your house look lived in. Put your lights on a timer, leave a car in the driveway, or ask a neighbor to pick up your mail. Burglars tend to avoid homes that look occupied, so keeping up appearances is key.

8. Secure Your Garage

Garages can be an easy entry point for burglars, so don’t forget to secure them. Keep the door closed when you’re not using it, and make sure any doors leading into your house from the garage are locked. If you have a garage door opener, consider upgrading to one that you can control remotely, so you never forget to close it.

9. Don’t Share Too Much on Social Media

We all love sharing vacation photos, but it’s a good idea to wait until you’re back home to post them. Announcing that you’re away could make your home a target for burglars who know you’re not there. Keep your travel plans private and avoid mentioning long trips online until after you’ve returned.

10. Think About a Home Alarm

A basic alarm system can be a big deterrent, even if it’s a simple one. Some alarms are easy to set up yourself and can send alerts to your phone if there’s any suspicious activity. Even just putting up a sign that says you have an alarm system can scare off potential intruders.

With a few inexpensive changes, you can make your home much more secure. From locking your doors to installing a few cameras, these steps can go a long way in protecting your property without a hefty price tag.