Let’s talk about pets!
Don’t get us wrong - we love our pets - and yours, but on staging day, for their safety, security and peace, pets should be crated and secured in a spare room that is not to be staged, or off premises, ideally.
The same goes for private showings!
Interestingly, while more than 85% of buyers are looking for a home that will accommodate pets, they prefer not to see them, or any evidence of them, during showings.
There’s another large percentage of buyers who may love pets but have allergies - so signs of pets are a red flag!
Whenever possible take your pets with you or ask a friend or family member to take care of them. If it is an open-house and you’re at work, consider boarding them. Everyone will be a bit more comfortable knowing your pets are safe.
If you can’t board your pets somewhere, definitely do everything you can to secure them in an area that won’t obstruct viewing the property for possible buyers. Buyers want to see every room and closet in the house, so the best spot is in a kennel in the backyard.
Whatever you choose, ensure you’ve informed your realtor so they can pass along any important information—like, “Snowball is in her cage upstairs in the corner of the Master Bedroom”. This will put both you and potential buyers at ease during viewings—you’ll know your pets are safe, sound and not trying to escape!
GETTING RID OF THE EVIDENCE
Most people, even the ones who don’t own pets, love them. But, when it’s not your pet you tend to be a bit desensitized which makes it much easier to be put off by a foul smell or a floor littered in hair.
Make sure you clean, clean, clean and clean some more. This goes for staging your home period - but with pets you really need to take it to a new level.
CLEAN OUT CAGES OR LITTER BOXES
Let’s start with the easy stuff: clean out any cages or litter boxes daily, but especially before you have an open house or viewings. Even better, if the pets aren’t in the home for the afternoon, clean the cages and either put them away or outside. If the cage has fabrics like a dog bed or blankets, wash them too!
STEAM CLEAN FABRICS
Depending on what type of pet you own, you’re going to want to clean carpets, couches and fabrics. Consider getting carpet and furniture professionally cleaned, or spend some serious time doing this yourself properly. If you have a furry animal running around you’re going to want to vacuum daily when showing your property.
HIDE THE FLAWS
Hide imperfections like scratches or tears, especially on items that they aren’t even buying — like your old couch that you let your cat put her claws into. Buyers want to know you took care of the place and hiding these minor imperfections will make the whole picture seem more put together.
GET RID OF THE SMELLS
Last step when cleaning is to Febreeze everything! Where it’s not possible to wash – Febreeze. Get rid of all of the lingering smells and open all of your windows and blinds. Allow fresh air to circulate!
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