Winifred. Photo: Chris Maki www.phresh.net
Chances are, your pet is one of your BFs*. The animals we bring into our homes quickly find a place in our hearts & become part of the family. But potential buyers may find Edgar the Hamster or Lily the Labradoodle less adorable and more … odor-able.
Put yourself in the shoes of a home seeker when prepping to sell. Like landlords with a “no pets” policy, some home buyers may be less than thrilled about odors, allergens, stains, even damage to the yard. It’s easy for me to forgive my adorable fluffy kitty every time she coughs up something unrecognizable, but it also means I’ll be replacing any broadloom in my home before I list. Most buyers will not be so eager to overlook the charming evidence of my fur-baby.
Fluffy kitty & chronic upchucker, Ember. Hence the towel. Photo: Jessica Hagel
Here are 4 tips to prep your pet-filled property.
- Take a tour around your home, indoors and out, and repair any damage caused by pets. In my case I’ll be replacing carpet, as noted. You may need to touch up paint or fill holes in the yard. Dog owners often have to reseed or resod lawns.
- Scrub & deodorize like you really mean it! This will minimize allergens (helpful to the allergic) and make a pleasant first impression. Air out the house. Use a clean air machine if necessary, to eliminate smells. Ask an honest friend or neighbor if they can detect any odors that you’ve stopped noticing.
- Remove any and all evidence of your pets prior to showings. This means cat trees, doggie chaises, cages and kennels, even food bowls. OK, the 100-gallon fish tank can stay, as long as it’s really clean.
- Arrange for off-site pet-sitting, or take your pet with you when you go out for open houses and other viewings. Bring food bowls etc. with, and you’ll have a happy pet as well as happy househunters.
It can be hard for animal lovers to understand, but pet-related concerns really do eliminate potential buyers. Prepping your pet-filled property may make all the difference in your home sale. Happy House-Selling!
* Best friends.
Clyde. Photo: Chris Maki. www.phresh.net
Jessica Hagel is a Calgary-based home stager and redesign professional. Taking homes from drab to fab is what she’s all about! Actually that sounds like Colin & Justin. Jess probably won’t find your home drab, but it will be fab when the Fresh Moves team is done. And you won’t even have to wear an embarrassing t-shirt.
If you’re ready to renew your relationship with your rooms – or you’re getting ready to list on the real estate market – get in touch today. Email: jessica@freshmoves.ca Cell: 403.708.3260