C&G’s Guide to Selling Homes with Pets

Tips & Advice

Australia has one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world – the number of Aussie pets could be in the millions according to the RSPCA! As a populace of pet-lovers, it’s important to understand how to manage selling your property while keeping your beloved critters happy. Chisholm & Gamon agents emphasise the importance of first impressions at open for inspections, and unfortunately not all four-legged companions enjoy being surrounded by strangers. Your potential buyers may not be pet lovers either, and their discomfort could impact upon a decision to buy. C&G understands this tricky predicament, and we’ve packed this blog with ideas for managing your pets while marketing your property for the best result.

Relocate your pets

It’s not the easiest solution, but relocating your pets during your marketing campaign could ensure the least amount of pet-stress and the best results. They may need to temporarily stay with a close friend or relative, or at a local boarding kennel or cattery. Your prospective buyers might be deterred by the sight of fur-covered furniture, or footprints on tiles. Just remember that your home needs to stay squeaky clean during the open for inspection period, and having your furry friend around means extra vacuuming every day!

Remove litter boxes and puppy pads

They’re very necessary items - but your prospective purchasers will not appreciate seeing or smelling your pet’s litter! Regardless of whether the pet is on the property, keep these items hidden away and impeccably clean. It may also be worth hiring a professional cleaner to remove any stains or lingering odours. In some cases, you may need to remove and replace old carpets or floor coverings.

Remove signs of your pets

We often suggest removing family portraits during a marketing campaign - and that includes snaps of Patch and Pongo. Your home should feel neutral, so that buyers can imagine their lives in the space. They may form preconceived ideas about the property if they’re greeted by too many photos of pets lounging on the couches or beds. Likewise, we suggest hiding any chewed dog toys or scratched up cat poles. We can’t predict if other people have allergies or even negative previous experiences with animals – and it’s better to be safe than sorry when marketing your home is the task at hand.  

Chisholm and Gamon have plenty of experience selling Bayside homes with pets. Feel free to ask us for more tips if you are thinking of bringing your home to market. We can suggest options for kennels or catteries and professional services that can bring your home to an inspection-ready standard.

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