Homeowners with multiple pets may be unaware of the true atmosphere of the home. Family, friends, and even the hired realtor may not be completely upfront about how the home is being presented to prospective buyers. Frequent showings with out any offers may turn into motivation for a quick sale of the house. Here are a few tips to help disguise the fact that large dogs or numerous small pets live in the home.
Carpet Smell
As buyers walk through the open house, they may be bombarded with an odor from the carpets. Carpet smell that is concentrated in living areas and bedrooms may completely turn off potential buyers. Dog beds that are placed on the floor in bedrooms may concern buyers. People who are not dog lovers may not feel this is a potential romantic master bedroom or clean place for their children to play.
Pet Odor
Common areas of the home where pets spend most of their time may have a lingering odor. Pet food and water bowls left out with bits of food or dirty water in the kitchen may make buyers wonder about the cleanliness of the home.
Pet Hair
Pet hair clings to furniture, bedding, curtains, and settles on carpets. People who are not used to seing pet hair will immediately focus in on this. Use roller based pet hair removal products on microfiber or fabric furniture.
Hard Wood Floors
Florring that is durable is important, however hard wood floors that have extensive wear may be seen as an immediate expense. Large dogs that live indoors may have completely stratched the wood floors. There may be no amount of polishing that would help. Potential buyers may immediately include the repair costs when considering the home.
Increase the chances of receiving solid offers close to the listing price by erasing the evidence of large dogs living in the home during home showings.
- Arrange for a kennel service, dog sitter, or trusted family member to care for the dogs.
- Replace carpeting or steam clean all carpeting that has pet odors.
- Remove all dog bedding, litter boxes, and remove all dog service dishes.
- Dry clean or wash all bedding, curtains, furniture throws, decorative pillows, and furniture slip covers.
- Invest in plug-in air fresheners and highly scented candles.
When these steps have been taken, potential buyers will be able to see the home itself, and not be distracted by the evidence of large dogs or numerous cats.
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