Over the years, we have experienced break-ins at our these vacant properties. Thieves have stolen copper from electrical systems and HVAC units, as well as appliances and anything else of value. Just last week, it happened again, but this time we were ready.

We listed one of our properties for sale on the MLS and staged it. I received a showing request from an agent for Wednesday at 8 AM. The agent arrived in a blue Honda Civic, accompanied by her buyer in a white SUV. They toured the property for about 15 minutes before leaving. However, about 15 minutes later, the white SUV returned and parked in the carport for about 5 minutes before leaving again. Shortly after, a blue pickup truck backed into the carport.

How did I know all this? We have discreetly installed cameras in the front and back of the property. These cameras send alerts whenever there is motion. When I saw the white SUV return, it seemed suspicious. The “buyer” had clearly left the back door open when the agent wasn’t looking and came back to check to see if it was still open before sending her accomplice.

When I saw the pickup truck backing into the driveway, I called the police. They arrived 10 minutes later and arrested the suspect as they were carrying the $600 stove out of the back door. While I doubt the agent was involved in the theft, she is at fault for not checking all the doors before leaving.

We had another incident a few months ago. We were converting one of our long term rental properties into a short-term rental. We were days from wrapping this project up and welcoming guests. Around 7 PM, I received a notification. Checking the camera, I saw two individuals attempting to break in through the back door. I triggered the alarm on the exterior cameras, and they ran off.

For the last few years, we have been using REOLink exterior cameras. They are solar-powered with night vision and, importantly, do not require an Internet connection. They operate over cellular data, and we purchase a data plan through T-Mobile for each camera.

• Here’s a list of REOLink Exterior Cameras you may want to consider.

• We personally use REOLINK 2K Solar WiFi Security Cameras. You will need the Reolink app installed on your smartphone and want to check in to purchasing a data plan through a cell phone carrier as well.

• For our short term rentals, they do run off the WIFI in the property and we use Ring Cameras with the Solar Panel and Wall Mount. You will need the Ring app installed on your smartphone.

If you have any properties under renovation or sitting vacant, I strongly suggest installing exterior security cameras at the front and back of the house. These are definitely worth the investment and peace of mind.