SAFETY TIPS FOR WOMEN HOME BUYERS

According to the Census 2011 reports, 28,901,346 females reside in Gujarat. In Ahmedabad alone, there are 2,634,716 females out of the total population of 5,570,585. Statistics also show that 777,962 houses are headed by women.

…and when it comes to women, the first priority is safety.

As security issues loom large in our cities, single women have become more and more apprehensive about moving into apartments or as paying guests.

While certain builders and architects are increasing security measures in their designs, we begin to recognize that many buildings, parking lots, streets, public transport and even sidewalks are not designed with women in mind.

When it comes to ‘fear’, it is a healthy emotion and women should listed to their gut feelings, negative vibes or feelings of insecurity.

We have compiled a list of safety tips for prospective women clients who wish to invest in properties and homes!

Note- None of this is meant to be frighten women away from buying a home, but to help prepare women for home ownership safety and to offer tips on finding the right home by shopping with security at the forefront.

     1.  Buy Bungalows With Attached Garages.

It is wiser to have attached garages if you are planning to buy a bungalow. This way, when you come home in the evenings / late evenings, when it is dark, you can directly enter your home from the garage itself. With advance in technology, electronic garage doors are becoming quite popular. These are known to be classy as well as safe.

     2.  Well populated buildings

Hunt for apartments in well populated and ‘live’ buildings. Also keep a good rapport with the security guards and neighbors.

     3.  Street Lights

It would be wise to go for a property which is well lit and illuminated in the evenings. Abundant street lighting and motion-sensor lights offer more security than dimly lit areas.

     4.  Electronic Security Systems

Electronic security systems are easy to install and readily available in the market today. These systems make it easy to see and hear whoever is outside the door. 

     5.  Inspect Door Locks

Locks are very important for our safety. Any damaged / old locks can be a cause of concern. When you move in, make sure you get the lock changed. Adding Look at the strong deadbolts, which unlock from the inside without a key would be a smart move too!

     6.  Location

Where is your room / apartment located? On which floor? How easy would it be to escape in emergencies? Is it located in a remote area? Burglars tend to prefer quiet locations where they can go about the business of breaking in without being seen from the street.

     7.  High Storey Buildings

It is very tough for criminals or hooligans to reach up to the higher stories of a building unnoticed. Also, as far as possible, opt for ‘road facing’ homes so that there is always someone to call for help.

     8.  Neighborhood

Certain neighborhoods are safe and while some are considered ‘sensitive’. Search the area on the internet and ask around for past history of crimes or criminals. 

     9.  Dogs

If you have already purchased your property and none of the above is applicable anymore, a simple solution would be a dog. Dogs make great companions and offer a great sense of security. It's not necessary to get a big dog, either, as little dogs can often yap louder and more incessantly than big dogs!