While we like to think of our homes as a safe refuge, there are still many things we could do to make them even safer. If you are selling in the UBC real estate market, you should take care to make it as risk-free as possible.

 

A new buyer will want to see these things already installed in the home. With enough careful preparation, your home can be the safest place there is. To protect it and the people who live in it, safety experts recommend the following devices:

  

Smoke Alarms

 

Most houses have a smoke alarm, but one truly is not enough. Fire safety recommendations state that there should be at least one smoke alarm on every floor of the house. You could go even further by placing one inside each bedroom and near areas prone to fire, such as kitchens and living rooms.

 

Always make sure that your smoke alarm's batteries are charged and operable. Many people dismantle smoke alarms because they will sound off while they are cooking, only to forget to replace the battery later on. Check batteries at the start of every fall and spring to be completely certain that smoke alarms are working properly.

  

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

 

Everyone is wary of fire, but less people concern themselves with carbon monoxide. This gas is odorless and colorless; it only takes a small amount to build up to unsafe levels.

 

Install at least one carbon monoxide alarm per household. Follow the instruction's recommendations to decide on a location.

 

Circuit Interrupters

 

The type of outlet switch with a “test” and “reset” button is called a ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI. These special outlet assemblies should be located in any room that has a high usage of electric devices or a high likelihood of splashing water.

 

They are generally installed in bathrooms and kitchens. If you are going to be using high-capacity devices frequently in a room then they may be useful there, as well.

  

Outlet Covers and Plates

 

Any infrequently used outlet is recommended to have a plate cover on it. This especially holds true if you have kids or pets in your house. If you have children living in your home, unplug devices from outlets in main areas after use and then replace the outlet cover.

 

These four devices alone can prevent unfortunate incidents from happening. Someone selling or renting their home should take the time to install these devices in order to reassure the new residents that they can sleep safe and sound.

 

If you have a home for sale near UBC, we would love to tell everyone how secure they will be once they move in. Our team of real estate experts will convincingly tout any benefit you add to your home while looking for the perfect buyer. Take a look at our seller's page to find out more about what we can do for you.