Susan Clark - PJ Morgan Real Estate - Omaha, Nebraska Real Estate

Can I child proof my house and still sell it?

There are some subtle and inexpensive ways to child proof your house that won’t bother most buyers. In fact, some buyers will be grateful and feel like it increases the value if they have young ones or plan to.

1. Cabinet locks. Install these in areas where potentially dangerous items are stored, such as under the kitchen sink cabinet.

2. Appliance locking straps. These are easy to install and prevent kids from opening ovens, dishwashers and toilets.

3. Fireplace gates. Living room fireplaces are a common fixture in many homes. The preventative measure can be a great way to ease the initial fears of people viewing the home.

4. Smoke detectors. Make sure you install one near every bedroom and in common areas throughout the house. Consider adding a carbon monoxide detector as well.

5. Electrical outlet covers. These plastic inserts for electrical outlets are an inexpensive and easy fix that can go a long way in helping a potential buyer visualize their child playing or living in that space.

6. Curtain/blinds cord cleats. Install these cleats next to window and wrap around them the cord used to draw the curtains or blinds.

Each of these are subtle and inexpensive ways to amp up the level of interest home buyers with kids may have in your home.