Burglars Are Targeting This One Spot In Your Home, And Security Experts Are Saying This Is The Best Way To Protect Your Home

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05-05-2025

When you're packing for a beach trip, winding down with an episode of Grey's Anatomy or enjoying dinner with family, the last thing you probably want to think about is someone invading your home. And yet, it's a real-life scenario that is estimated to happen every 25.7 seconds, so it's worth some thought.
At the same time, worrying too much about a home burglary probably isn't helpful, nor do you likely have the time for it. So, what steps 'should' you take?
According to a couple of home security experts, a major focus is knowing where a person is most likely to break in, plus the psychology behind their actions. Ahead, they spill that information and how to protect your home.
The No. 1 Spot In Your Home A Burglar Goes First — And Why
Maybe it's surprising, maybe it's not: The first place a burglar thinks to break into your home is the front door. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, 34% of home burglaries happen this way.
Essentially, the reason why boils down to one key point: It's easiest.
'As these doors are the most direct entry points into a home, they are easier to access, can be easier to forcibly enter and can even be left unlocked, allowing intruders to enter without deterrence,' said Rick Sheets, vice president of monitoring and compliance at Brinks Home.
In fact, about 42% of people leave their doors and windows unlocked when they're at home, and in 28% of burglary cases, someone is home.
That's not the only lock-related concern. 'Another healthy percentage leaves spare keys in obvious places, like under the front door mat,' added Rob Gabriele, the in-house home security and safety expert for SafeHome.org.
Opting for the front door mat makes sense — which is a good thing and a not-so-good thing, as you can see here.
Other Common Spots Burglars Go Inside A Home
The front door isn't the only way burglars get in, and it doesn't cover where they go after. So, let's talk about other common spots.
Through Windows
Windows are the next avenue in which burglars break into a home. Particularly, Sheets warned about windows on the ground floor. Again, easier access.
Where Valuables Are Stored
Pretty obvious, but it's worth noting — especially since you can't help that you have certain valuables and where you put them, to some degree. For example, you 'should' be 'allowed' to have a TV in your downstairs bedroom and feel that it's safe, even if that's unfortunately not the case.
'Once a burglar has entered the home, they often target rooms that typically house valuables, such as primary bedrooms, media rooms, and home offices,' Sheets said.
First-Floor Rooms
Burglars are fairly quick; they typically spend less than 10 minutes in a home. That means their main focus is usually nearby spaces.
'It's rare for them to waste time on second-floor spaces,' Gabriele said.
However, it's common for people to leave valuables on the first floor, he continued. People may leave purses and wallets by the front door, for example. Additionally, they often have electronics in their living rooms and medications in their bathrooms and kitchens.
So, it may help to hide those items, place them in a safe or at least put them on the second floor, if possible.
Home Security Tips To Remember
Now that you know the areas to focus on, let's talk about what you can do in those areas (and around them) to reduce the chances of a burglary.
Avoid Hiding Spare Keys
As mentioned, burglars know people typically hide keys under mats or in flowerpots. By not putting a key there, you may reduce your risk.
Instead, Sheets recommended finding an alternative solution, such as securing your spare key with a smart door lock.
Remember, while finding the right key on your keyring might be a hassle, leaving your door unlocked can lead to some pretty unfortunate situations.
Move Valuables Away From Windows
Besides being exactly what burglars want, those valuables are close to a common entry point.
'Valuables left near first-floor windows make for tempting smash-and-grab targets,' Gabrielle said.
Make it harder for the burglar to steal your things.
Make Your Home Look Occupied And Lived In
Burglars may be less likely to break into your home if they think someone is inside. So, even if you're not home, consider making it look like you are.
'Use smart home devices, such as lights and plugs, to simulate activity within your home,' Sheets said. 'This strategy is especially useful during extended absences, like vacations.'
Believe it or not, this is important when it's light out, too. Most burglaries occur during the day — between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., to be exact — perhaps because burglars think people are at work. So however you make your home look occupied, don't forget to do it during daylight hours.
Other ways to make your home look lived in include keeping your lawn mowed, trimming your hedges and bringing in your mail, Gabriele said.
'If you have to be away for any length of time, ask a relative, a friend or a neighbor to take care of these chores for you,' he continued. 'First and foremost, you want to give the impression that you're vigilant about your security.'
Add Sensors And Security Systems
On the note of security, door sensors, window sensors, glass-break sensors … these are all great home safety items Sheets mentioned.
'Homeowners will receive alerts for both forced entry through doors or windows, as well as glass breakage, ensuring comprehensive protection,' he explained.
Often, security systems offer 24/7 monitoring, video surveillance and instant alerts, Sheets added, which deter burglars. Further, if they break in anyway, these systems will alert the authorities for you.
So naturally, it makes sense that Gabriele said this is the 'very best way to protect yourself.'
'Beyond the actual protection entry sensors and cameras provide, they tell burglars in plain language that your home is secure,' he continued. 'Even a video doorbell is a bright red warning to anyone who might be thinking about breaking into your home.'