If someone breaks into your home and steals some of your more expensive items, the effects can be devastating. Not only do you have to file a claim with your home insurance, you also have to prove that someone broke in and that the items you are claiming were stolen actually were. This can be quite a process that no homeowner will want to have to deal with. This is why it's important to consider these four tips for preventing home theft:

1. Careful What You Leave in Sight: When you bring home a new TV or other expensive electronic, it's important that you do not leave the cardboard box outside for anyone to see. The box should be broken down and throw inside of the recycling bin along with other things that can hide it. This way, your home is not a huge target. On top of this, you should also consider parking your new vehicle inside of the garage. If someone sees a new vehicle fresh from the lot parked in your driveway, they may be interested to know what other expensive new things you have at home. 
2. Pack for Vacation Secretively: Instead of spending all day bringing bags out to your car, consider doing it all at once so that there is less of a chance that someone will see that you are packing to leave. The best thing to do would be to pack your things inside of your car while it's parked in the garage. This way, no one can see that you are packing to leave. 
3. Be Aware that Many Home Break-Ins Happen During the Day: Break-ins are more likely to happen during the day because burglars know that this is when people are most likely to be out of their homes because of work. For this reason, it's important to take measures to make it appear as if someone is home while you are gone at work. This can include leaving the entrance hall light on. Of course, you just want to be sure that you use an energy efficient light bulb so that you don't waste too much energy. 
4. Install a Security System With Signs: Finally, you should consider installing a security system where it can be seen from the front door if someone were to peer inside. A security system alone typically deters thieves instantly. This is also true if you use security signs in your yard and windows that tell people you have an alarm. Your security company can provide you with these signs upon installing your security alarm for you. 

When you utilize these four tips, you can be sure that your home is less likely to be broken into (click here for more info).