Fluffy or Fido is part of your family and is there to greet, snuggle and just bring you joy. We loved Luna, our beloved Labrador Retriever, for many years. (See photo above.) We lost her last August and still miss her every day.
When it comes time to sell your home, having a pet poses a unique set of challenges. But, it is possible to minimize the evidence of your pet. (Remember, you love your pet. A buyer may not.) Here are five home-staging tips:
- Designate an area of your home for everything pet related – food, bowls, crates, leashes and toys. If possible, clear all items into a closet or better yet take them with you when you have a showing or real estate photo session. Remember to remove photos of your pets.
- Have specific cleaning supplies on hand and ready to use like a lint roller for furniture or spot cleaner for a carpet.
- Speaking of cleaning, make sure floors, baseboards, pillows, curtains and carpets are clean.
- If you have pets, you have pet odors (sorry). Use products to neutralize the odors, not mask them. If you need help, ask your most honest friend to tell you the truth! (You may want to consider having upholstered furniture and carpets professionally cleaned.) Remember, a strong odor is one of the top reasons a buyer will pass on a home.
- That dreaded litter box. Clean the box before showings, put it in the garage or take it with you. Also don’t forget to clean up the yard of dog’s business, too.
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