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Pets are often so much a part of our family that we sometimes don’t understand those who don’t wish to have pets around. When you are trying to sell your home you want to appeal to everyone; some people get very nervous around animals or are afraid of them. Check out these suggestions on how to get your home ready for Ottawa staging:

  • Remove any signs of pets – remove toys, litter boxes etc.
  • Put away any food or water bowls during a showing or pictures
  • Take a quick check to make sure any stains are removed from rugs or flooring
  • Have a friend come over and see if they can do a “sniff” test to see if they smell pet odour

When you have pets around they are very distracting during a showing. If your pet is on the loose often buyers who are animal lovers will be more interested in your pet than in buying your home. If your cat is the cantankerous sort it may be threatened when new people are in your house and take on growling and hissing behaviour. All this distracts buyers from ever looking at your home again.

If at all possible when you are having a professional photographer taking pictures of your home make sure your pets are not in the way. Photos should be taken without your pets in the pictures.

If you are looking for a top price for your home, it might be more beneficial to relocate your pets during a showing. Simply by bringing your pets with you if you can, or letting them stay with a friend or relative during an open house or showing will relieve any distractions. You don’t want to have them crated, in the garage or another room. This is unfair to your pets and distracting to potential buyers.

Lastly, make sure you get a thorough cleaning of your home by eliminating all pet hair. First impressions are very important when you sell your home. This can make or break a sale if your home doesn’t look thoroughly clean. Don’t try to mask any pet odor with air fresheners as this may also be a deterrent to those who have allergies. If you can’t get all the odours out of your home, seek a professional company that has allergy free, natural products.

If you need any further direction on Ottawa staging or selling your home with pets, check with the Winch Walton Ottawa Real Estate and Home Staging Team. They can offer suggestions on how best to stage or show your home with pets in mind.

 

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