So you want to sell your home. You’ve cleaned and organized from top to bottom, you’ve added curb appeal, and you may have even done some much-needed remodeling. But have you thought about how your home’s security can help?

Home safety features such as solid doors, landscape lighting, and a home security system can promote a sense of safety that homebuyers value. Here are a few important ways that a secure home can attract buyers and help you sell your house quickly and for your asking price—or even more.

1. A security system can be a differentiator

When you’re trying to sell your home, you want to make it stand out from other houses on the market. A monitored home security system is great way to make that happen.

Contact your home security provider to find out how to transfer service to a new homeowner. Create a cheat-sheet for your realtor that briefly explains how the system works and what safety features it offers. This will help your realtor give prospective buyers an understanding of the system’s benefits, which will increase its perceived value.

2. Your security improvements will help buyers

Prospective buyers who want to save time and money will appreciate that you’ve made security improvements, so they won’t have to. Whether you’ve replaced a hollow front door with a solid wood door or added exterior lighting, make a list of any security improvements you’ve made and give it to your realtor to pass on to prospective buyers.

3. Home security can increase the perceived value of your home

From walkway lighting to door and window sensors, your home’s safety and security features can give buyers a sense of security that can increase the perceived value of the whole home. If you have a home security system, find out what additional features your home security company offers and let your real estate agent know. For example, many home security systems integrate with home automation, which could be a feature potential buyers are looking for.

4. A secure home could save the buyer money

Many home insurance companies offer discounts if your home has a monitored security system. In fact, many companies offer discounts of up to 20 percent off a homeowner’s insurance premium. That’s a fabulous selling point!

Get in touch with your insurance agent and ask what you might be able to do to lower your homeowner’s insurance premium. Then, let your realtor know, so they can tell potential buyers what the’d save by purchasing your home.

So how can you make your home safer?

If your house is up for sale, you don’t want to invest money into improvements that won’t get a return. Here are some changes you can make to improve your home’s safety and security and help your home sell faster:

  • Prune shrubs and bushes so that they’re too small to conceal intruders, and don’t obscure windows.
  • Install motion-activated exterior lights and landscaping lighting.
  • Replace weak locks with deadbolts that have an ANSI Grade 1 rating.
  • Make sure security yard signs can be seen from the road.
  • Secure railings and make sure walkways don’t present tripping hazards.
  • Install a monitored home security system.

A safe and secure home will help buyers feel comfortable about their potential purchase. If your home already has some of the safety and security features we’ve outlined above, be sure you’re using them to help market your home.

Top Image Credit: Tiek Built Homes