Here are 3 tips on how to keep your family and home safe this holiday season.

1. Caution with Christmas Lights

Did you know Christmas lights can easily become unsafe after being packed away for months without use? Some of the most common fire hazards during the holidays are thus caused by unsafe Christmas lights. So here’s what to do before you string up old lights: check for worn out cords and dispose of them. When setting up new lights, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on voltage requirements and use information.

Electrical Safety First, Uk also makes the following recommendations:

• use only replacement bulbs of the same type and rating as those originally supplied with the lights
• ensure all outdoor lights are connected via a 30mA RCD protected socket
• replace failed lamps immediately to prevent overheating
• ensure plugs and transformers are plugged in indoors, even if the lighting is suitable for outdoor use
• switch your lights off and unplug them before you go to bed or go out
• keep lights away from flammable decorations and materials that can burn easily
• use a fire extinguisher and make sure yours is accessible and unexpired.

2. Security

Criminals keep watch and wait for a window of opportunity to breach your security. Always take an extra minute to double-check that all doors are locked and windows are securely shut. Do not hide keys under doormats and keep important items out of sight. Where possible, set up security cameras connected to your mobile device so that you can monitor the security of your home remotely.

3. Keep Your Home Active

When the cat’s away, the mice come to play! Your home is prone to theft when your home is so quiet that it communicates your absence. An excellent tip to keep an apparent appearance of someone at home is to use timed lamps – they will switch on and off during set periods.

Express UK suggests the following ways to keep your home looking busy when you’re not in:

• Leaving hallway lights on
• Ask neighbours to move bins on the driveway to mimic the daily activity
• Leave your car on the driveway – use public transport to travel this Christmas
• Ask a friend or neighbour to move any built-up post out of sight

There is very little to worry about when you live in a Landlord Africa estate. All our projects are located in safe neighbourhoods with the added benefit of round the clock security. We ensure that all visitors of the estate go through thorough security protocols to ensure the safety of our clients. If you are looking for a secure home this new year, check out our newest project, The Essence.

Compliments of the season to you! Have a Merry and Safe Holiday Season.

Defining the term ‘furnished’ or ‘unfurnished’

An unfurnished apartment doesn’t necessarily mean that the apartment is completely bare. In essence, it’s an apartment that includes very minimal fixtures and fitting. One can expect to find bathroom and kitchen fixtures, flooring and on occasion some major appliances such as a fridge/freezer, oven or washing machine.

On the other hand, a furnished apartment should aim to provide a tenant with a home from home experience. Tenants should not have to worry about furniture upon moving in, items such as beds, wardrobes right down to cutlery should be provided.

There is also a middle ground known as semi-furnished which aims to provide big-ticket items, such as beds and sofas but less of the smaller more personal style items such as wall painting, and smaller kitchen appliances. Landlord Africa has a portfolio of the very best furnished as well as unfurnished properties available on the market.

Advantages of an unfurnished apartment

1. In the long run it will be cheaper as these types of apartments have lower rental prices as compared to their counterparts. Although you’ll have to purchase your own furniture, it is a one time cost which you take to subsequent properties you choose to move to.

2. There is more scope to customise and put your own spin on your space. You’ll have more flexibility in how you design the property.

3. There is less chance you’ll lose your deposit as you’re not liable for any furniture.

Advantages of a furnished apartment

1. It’s more convenient for you as a short term option, you can simply move in with just your bags. This option is particularly beneficial for students, young people or professionals who regularly move for work.

2. It is also cheaper than in the short term because the initial financial output is lower. You do not need to purchase any furniture as it is already provided.

3. Furnished apartments provide flexibility in a different way. Tenancy tends to be shorter meaning you don’t have to commit to a property for a long period of time.

The Landlord’s perspective

When leasing out your property, you’ll need to consider the type of tenants you want your property to attract. Landlord Africa is able to provide advice as to which option would best suit you.

A furnished apartment may attract tenants from these categories:

1. People looking for short-term lets

2. Those looking to be closer to work during the week

3. Corporate tenants who require a property for staff/clients

4. Overseas tenants

5. Young professionals looking to live in high-ticket areas

Whereas an unfurnished apartment may attract:

1. Longer-term tenants

2. Those who wish to make their living space feel like home

3. Anyone who already owns their own furniture

4. Families

There’s a lot to consider when deciding what’s best for you. Ultimately, the decision lies in your hands.

Looking to buy or rent a property in Accra? Landlord Africa provides a collection of luxury and quality homes and our property managers will be delighted to go over your options, either as a tenant or a landlord. We are only a quick call away. Give us a ring today!