Pets are part of the family. As a Springer Spaniel owner myself, I know how much they make a house feel like home.
But when it comes to selling, it helps to remember that the person viewing your property may feel differently. They might love animals, feel nervous around them or have allergies to consider.
A little preparation can help buyers feel comfortable and give them the space to appreciate your home. Here are my tips for preparing for viewings when you have pets.
Make a plan for your pets
Where possible, arrange for dogs to be out of the house during viewings. A walk with someone they know or a short visit to a familiar friend can make things easier for everyone.
Even the friendliest dog can distract buyers, particularly if it is excited to greet them. Viewings can also unsettle pets, with unfamiliar voices and doors opening and closing.
For cats and other animals staying at home, let your estate agent know beforehand so you can agree a sensible plan. Explain any precautions needed, especially if a pet must stay indoors. This is something I discuss with sellers before viewings begin.
Give pet hair a little extra attention
Pet hair has a habit of finding its way into places we stop noticing: the corner of the sofa, the stairs, curtains and the edges of rugs.
Before a viewing, vacuum floors and soft furnishings thoroughly, paying particular attention to your pet’s favourite spots. Wash pet bedding regularly and clean the areas around beds, crates and feeding stations.
Some buyers may have allergies, so it is helpful to tell your agent that pets live in the property. Taking an animal out for a viewing does not remove all traces of its presence.
Aim for fresh air and clean rooms
It can be difficult to notice familiar pet smells in your own home. Asking someone you trust for an honest opinion can help you identify anything that needs attention.
Air the rooms before viewings and tackle the source of any odours. That might mean washing throws, cleaning carpets or refreshing a litter tray.
I would keep strong fragrances to a minimum. Scented candles and air fresheners can be overpowering, and buyers may wonder what they are covering up. A clean, well-aired home is welcoming enough.
Tidy away everyday pet clutter
Bowls, toys, leads and beds are part of everyday life, but gathering them away for a viewing can help rooms look calmer and make walkways easier to navigate.
Clear feeding areas and wipe the floor around them. If practical, temporarily move bulky beds or crates so buyers can see the available floor space.
Keep anything your pet needs accessible, particularly if they are staying at home during the appointment.
Check the garden
Give the garden a quick check before every viewing. Clear away pet waste, gather up toys and make sure paths and seating areas are clean.
If your dog has dug holes or worn a favourite route across the lawn, tidy these areas where practical. Buyers will want to explore the outside space, so it should feel as cared for as the rooms indoors.
Deal with small signs of damage
Scratched doors, chewed woodwork and damaged carpet can draw attention away from an otherwise lovely room.
Walk through your home as though you were seeing it for the first time. Look at doors, skirting boards, flooring and the spots your pets use most often.
Small repairs and thoughtful touch-ups can make a noticeable difference to how well cared for your home feels. If you are unsure what is worth doing, I can help you prioritise before photography and viewings.
Keep the routine manageable
Preparing for viewings should be practical enough to repeat. Once the deeper cleaning and any repairs are done, a simple check before each appointment can help:
- Make arrangements for your pets.
- Vacuum the main rooms and their favourite resting places.
- Clean feeding areas and litter trays.
- Tidy away loose toys, bowls and leads where practical.
- Check the garden and let in some fresh air.
The aim is to help buyers feel comfortable, notice the space and picture their own lives there — perhaps with pets of their own.
If you are thinking of selling your home in Hoyland, Elsecar or the wider Barnsley area, I can help you decide which preparations will make the most difference and plan viewings around you and your pets.
Julie Ward | Hoyland Estate Agent 07951 312803 | julie.ward@kwuk.com