How to Keep Your Vacation Home in Top Shape While You’re Away
There’s nothing like having a beachfront getaway to escape to whenever you need a break. But when that home sits empty for weeks or months at a time, small problems can quickly turn into big headaches.
If you own a second home, you know the stress—Will there be a leak? Is the air conditioning running properly? Did the last storm cause any damage? And of course, the last thing you want to deal with when you arrive is a long to-do list.
That’s why smart homeowners take a proactive approach to home care, ensuring their place stays safe, well-maintained, and guest-ready—even when they’re not around. Here’s how you can do the same.
1. Have Someone Check on Your Home Regularly
Even if your home is in great condition now, things can go wrong when it’s left empty. A small roof leak can lead to major water damage. An unexpected power outage can leave food rotting in the fridge. Without regular check-ins, you may not realize there’s an issue until it’s too late.
Having a trusted local service perform routine home checks means someone will notice problems before they escalate—and handle them for you. Regular inspections can cover everything from checking for leaks and pests to making sure the AC and security systems are functioning properly.
2. Protect Your Home from the Elements
Beachfront homes are exposed to salt air, strong winds, and heavy storms, meaning they require a little extra care to stay in good shape. And if your home is in a hurricane-prone area, preparation is key.
Before heading out for an extended time, take a few steps to protect your home:
- Secure or store outdoor furniture and décor so nothing gets damaged or blown away.
- Set up dehumidifiers or a smart thermostat to keep humidity levels in check.
- Have storm shutters ready—or better yet, let a local service handle pre- and post-storm inspections for you.
A little preparation goes a long way in avoiding costly weather-related repairs.
3. Don’t Leave Your Home Looking Unoccupied
An empty home can be an easy target for break-ins, trespassing, or even squatters. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple ways to make your home look occupied:
- Motion-activated lighting helps deter unwanted visitors.
- Security cameras with remote access let you check in anytime.
- Landscaping maintenance ensures your property doesn’t look neglected.
Another smart option? Hiring a local home watch service. Having someone periodically stop by and check on the house is one of the best ways to keep it safe—and handle any unexpected issues while you’re away.
4. Keep Up with Routine Maintenance
It’s easy to overlook home maintenance when you’re not there every day. But if certain things are left unattended, they can lead to expensive repairs later on.
Before leaving for an extended period, make sure to:
- Run the water and flush toilets to prevent stagnant pipes.
- Set the HVAC system to a moderate temperature to avoid humidity issues.
- Check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and security systems.
Having a local team manage upkeep means you’ll never have to worry about coming home to surprises like leaks, mold, or a malfunctioning air conditioner.
5. Set Your Home Up for a Relaxing Arrival
Nothing kills vacation vibes faster than arriving to a dusty, musty house with an empty fridge. Instead of spending your first day cleaning and running errands, imagine walking into a spotless home stocked with your favorite groceries.
That’s exactly why many second-homeowners use pre-arrival concierge services—so that everything is taken care of before they step through the door. Whether it’s cleaning, fridge stocking, or setting up outdoor spaces, small details make a big difference in turning your home into a true retreat.
Making Second-Homeownership Stress-Free
Managing a second home from afar can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right plan in place, you can enjoy all the perks of your beach house without the hassle.
If you’d rather not spend your time worrying about maintenance, security, and preparation, a local concierge team can take care of it for you. From routine home checks to pre-arrival services, Hourglass Concierge helps second-homeowners keep their vacation homes in perfect shape—so they can focus on enjoying them. Hourglass Concierge Offers:
- Home inspections & storm prep
- Routine maintenance coordination
- Security checks & emergency response
- Pre-arrival & departure services
- Seasonal decor updates
- Interior design and styling
Enjoy your vacation home without the hassle—let us handle the details!
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation on our second-home services.