Security during the tenant turn-over

[Pavan Krishna]

Hi,

I'm a long-distance landlord.  I've a house in San Jose bay area and live out of state.  After the last tenants vacated, I spend 2 weeks at this house, got it all fixed up, engaged a tenant placement service and returned home.  Now the problem starts. 

Some seedy characters (perhaps based on the rental ads) figured out that this house is empty.  Our gardener called me today to let me know that 5 people picked the lock, entered the home.  They were drinking, smoking marjuana, etc..  As I'm out of state, I'm not in a position to respond right away and also cannot live at the house until i find my next tenant.  I called the local police non-urgent line to report the suspicious activity.  

Did anyone face similar situation?  How best to keep the bad guys out?  Are there any security companies that provide security to a home between tenants?  Should I install an alarm system?  Change the locks to more complex/advanced ones?  Install smart cameras?  Am open to any suggestions.

Thanks for your time