Are you getting ready to put your home on the market? Do you have a loveable pooch or friendly feline? These questions may seem unrelated, but they’re not. The truth is, having a cat or dog can complicate the home-selling process. Many buyers are less likely to purchase a property if they know it recently housed pets. The good news? If you have animals, there are steps you can take to boost your home’s appeal in the eyes of buyers.

If you’re a pet owner who’s getting ready to sell your property, here’s what you need to know to help ensure a successful sale…

How it’s different

It may sound strange—especially if you’re a pet lover. But not everyone is a fan of animals. From the messes they sometimes leave to the distractions they can pose during showings, four-legged family members don’t always make the best impression on home hunters. While many sellers believe that tidying up and closing their pet off in a room when buyers visit is preparation enough, that simply isn’t true. Based on our experience with buyers, we can tell you that it pays to be thorough. That means keeping your dog or cat completely out of sight—and out of mind.

Cleaning

Pet messes are an instant turnoff for home buyers, so removing all traces of them is crucial. When it comes to stains, we advise using a product formulated especially for animals. These removers tend to be tough on both spots and odours, so you can take care of two issues at the same time. Consider solutions from Arm & Hammer, Resolve, or Nature’s Miracle.

Shedding is often another major issue. Even if you clean continuously, you’re bound to find accumulated hair underneath furniture—and stuck to your upholstery. In addition to vacuuming frequently, use a lint roller or damp cloth to remove animal hair from your couches and living room chairs.

Repairing the damage

Even when a home that contains pets is free of messes, stains, and odours, many buyers worry about hidden damage. From scratched flooring to a torn-up lawn, animals can be hard on a home (epecially those of the canine variety). The best way to prevent potential buyers from thinking about pet-related damage is to find and completely repair all signs of it.

For minor scratches on wood, try a blended pencil (available at most home improvement stores) or a new coat of finish. Your landscaping can most likely be restored cheaply—just ask an expert at your local gardening centre for advice. While you’re out in the yard, don’t forget to look carefully for hidden waste!

Relocation options

Of course, it’s not just the signs of a pet that could turn buyers off. For many, the presence of an animal (even a well-behaved one) can call to mind potential damage to a home—or simply pose a distraction when they’re viewing your property. For these reasons, finding a place for your pet to stay during showing periods is critical.

If you have any family members or friends who adore your furry loved one, ask them whether they’d mind taking on the role of caretaker for a little while. If this isn’t an option, look into the boarding services and pet hotels in your area. Some options are better than others, so it pays to do a bit of online research.

Preparing your home for the market when you have pets can take a bit of extra work, but it’s worth it. Doing it right could mean the difference between finding the right buyer, and turning off those who might otherwise be interested.

Interested in learning more about home preparations and the selling process? Get in touch—we’re happy to answer all of your questions—and help you put your property on the market if the time is right!