Here are a few tips for protecting one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make.

Meet your neighbors. Have them over for game night, set up a playdate, or hit a new brewery together. They’ll give you a call if you left your garage door open or someone’s peeking in your windows.

Install a security system. Find one that fits your needs – whether that’s a traditional alarm system with motion detectors and window sensors or a smart home security system with video monitoring features, these solutions deliver the extra peace of mind that your home is protected whether you and your family are home or away.

Put your TV + lights on timers. If you spend long hours at work or you’re heading out of town for a long weekend, having lights that turn on and off throughout the day will be a huge deterrent to potential thieves. Using smart plugs and CPI’s inTouch app, lights and appliances are easy to control from your mobile phone or tablet. When combined with other security and smart home devices, powerful apps like this one allow homeowners to remotely adjust your home’s temperature, arm your security system or lock the front door if you forget – no more stress.

Get a carbon monoxide detector. Everyone appreciates the importance of smoke detectors, but the dangers of carbon monoxide, especially in a home with young children are just as real. carbon monoxide detectors will alarm homeowners when the levels get too high, allowing the family to safely evacuate the house.

These features are great for feeling more secure in your new home but knowing that your system was installed and monitored by professionals is the real safety net.