What’s the best way to loot homesteads for valuables?

Looting homesteads in Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the most effective ways to earn money and collect valuable items. Homesteads are scattered across the map and often contain cash, jewelry, food, and other useful resources. To maximize your loot, you need to approach these locations strategically, considering both stealth and combat mechanics.\n\nFirst, scout the homestead before entering. Use your binoculars or Eagle Eye to observe the area. Look for guards, dogs, or other threats. Some homesteads, like the Aberdeen Pig Farm or Watson''s Cabin, have hostile inhabitants, while others, like the abandoned houses near Valentine, are unguarded. Knowing the layout and potential dangers will help you plan your approach.\n\nNext, decide whether to use stealth or force. If the homestead is occupied, stealth is often the better option. Crouch to reduce noise and avoid detection. Use cover to stay hidden, and take out enemies silently with a bow or throwing knives. If you''re spotted, be prepared for a fight. Equip a reliable weapon like a revolver or shotgun to handle close-quarters combat.\n\nOnce inside, search every room thoroughly. Valuables like jewelry, cash, and gold bars are often hidden in drawers, cabinets, or lockboxes. Use Eagle Eye to highlight interactive objects. Some homesteads, like the Braithwaite Manor, have secret stashes or unique items. For example, the gold bar in Limpany is a must-find for early-game players.\n\nBe mindful of your honor level. Looting homesteads can lower your honor, especially if you harm innocent people. To minimize this, avoid unnecessary violence and only take what you need. If you''re playing as a high-honor character, focus on abandoned or hostile homesteads where looting won''t impact your morality.\n\nFinally, sell your loot to fences or general stores. Fences, like the one in Rhodes or Saint Denis, offer better prices for stolen goods. Items like jewelry and gold bars can fetch a high price, making homestead looting a lucrative activity. Keep an eye on your inventory to avoid carrying too much weight, which can slow you down.\n\nPractical tips: Always save before looting a homestead in case things go wrong. Use Dead Eye during combat to quickly eliminate threats. If you''re new to the game, start with smaller, unguarded homesteads to build confidence. For experienced players, target larger, more dangerous locations for greater rewards.\n\nIn summary, looting homesteads requires careful planning, stealth, and combat skills. By scouting the area, choosing the right approach, and thoroughly searching for valuables, you can turn homestead looting into a profitable activity. Whether you''re a new player or a seasoned outlaw, these tips will help you make the most of your time in Red Dead Redemption 2.