Home Staging with Pets
by Megan Thriepland
As a pet owner myself, I know how important to you your fury friends are. And preparing to sell your home requires additional preparation if you own pets.
One of the top ways to scare off potential home buyer is foul odors. If you have pets it is critical that you give your home a deep clean. Potential buyers may not make an offer if they suspect animals live in the house.
Whether you have pets or not, decluttering is essential, I suggest cleaning and hiding away common pet belongings such as litter boxes, cat trees, pet blankets and beds, pet dishes, etc.
If your furry friend uses your yard as the bathroom, make sure you clean up any waste and fill any holes. The last thing you want is a potential buyer stepping somewhere you missed.
Make sure you have plans in place for your pets. I know how difficult it can be to separate yourself from your pet and have them living elsewhere temporarily, but in the end it can make a big difference.
If relocating isn’t a possibility, the next best solution is to remove them during the showing. Perhaps taking them to the park while the real estate agent gives a showing or hiring a dog walker for that time. As a last resort, I recommend crating your pet. Remember, limiting your showings can reduce your chances of finding a buyer.
Some buyers feel uncomfortable around animals, so it is best that you don’t let them out and about during showings. Even worse, your beloved pet could escape with people coming in and out of the house.
