Look, I know prepping your house for the market can feel overwhelming. Between sprucing up your curb appeal and staging your living room like it’s straight out of an HGTV marathon, it’s easy to forget the unglamorous—but crucial—stuff.
Let me put it this way: buyers want a home that feels like a dream, but it better not come with the potential for nightmares. So before you schedule that open house or post your “For Sale” sign on Instagram, take five to make sure these three safety essentials are squared away.
1. Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Ah, carbon monoxide—the silent ninja of household hazards. You can’t see it, you can’t smell it, and you definitely don’t want it making a guest appearance at your home inspection.
Most states require carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping areas. But even if your state’s laws are a little behind the times, inspectors and buyers still expect to see them. It’s like showing up to a wedding in flip-flops—it might not be illegal, but it’s definitely frowned upon.
Combo smoke/CO detectors are like the Swiss Army knife of home safety. One device, two problems solved. Plus, it just looks cleaner.
2. Smoke Detectors:
True story: I once toured a house where the smoke detector was hanging by one wire and chirping like it was auditioning for American Idol. Talk about a red flag.
Functional smoke detectors should be in every bedroom, hallway, and on every level of your home. And by “functional,” I mean ones that actually work—not the dusty unit you silenced with a broom handle three years ago during a burnt popcorn incident.
✅ Quick Checklist:
- Test each unit. Yes, press the button. No, it won’t explode.
- Replace any that are more than 10 years old. They’ve served their time.
- Use lithium batteries for less hassle and longer life. You’re welcome.
3. Strap That Water Heater
If you’re in California—or anywhere that the ground occasionally does the cha-cha—water heater strapping is the law. But even in less shaky regions, it’s still a smart move. An unstrapped water heater in an earthquake or strong jostle can cause water damage, gas leaks, and a massive headache.
Why This All Matters
You can have the prettiest throw pillows in town, but if your smoke detectors are dead and your water heater’s doing the limbo, buyers are going to notice. And inspectors? They’ll flag it faster than you can say, “Wait, I thought that was optional.”
Don’t just make your house look like a dream home—make sure it functions like one. A few inexpensive updates—carbon monoxide detectors, working smoke alarms, and a properly strapped water heater—can go a long way in showing buyers that you’ve taken care of the place.
And hey, if nothing else, your house won’t beep at you in the middle of the night anymore. That’s worth it alone.
If you’re considering a move or investment and require a trusted Real Estate Broker, we’re here to assist you. Contact us via email at TEAM@McDanielCallahan.com, complete the form below, or give us a call at 925-838-4300. We are ready to provide expert guidance and support for all your real estate needs. Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526
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