A startled neighbour spotted Christopher Lovegrove squeezing his head and shoulders through a panel removed from a back door, magistrates heard.
Police were called to the unoccupied property and Lovegrove told officers his intention was to burgle the house, Laurie Kelleher, prosecuting, told Didcot Court.
Jobless Lovegrove, 26, of Gaveston Road, Harwell, admitted breaking into the house in Loder Road, Harwell, on September 13 with intent to steal. He was put on probation for 12 months and ordered to pay 55 costs.
Alistair Grainger, defending, described Lovegrove as "a bright young lad" who had a heroin habit.
Mr Grainger said Lovegrove removed a panel at the rear of the house to try to break in.
Lovegrove, who lived with his parents, was now trying to deal with his drug problem.
He had contacted the Smart charity - Substance Misuse Referral Team - which helps drug users.
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