How does having a pet affect viewings?

We are a nation of animal lovers. Sixty-two per cent of households in the UK contain a pet. Selling your home when you have pets can present some challenges, but with a few helpful tips, you can make sure that you negate any negative ways in which your furry friends may impact potential buyers.

Allergies

Up to 20% of people are allergic to our furry friends, so it is essential to take that into consideration when preparing for a viewing. If possible, try to have your pets out of the house during viewings, especially if you have dogs. This ensures that potential buyers can focus on the features of your home without distractions.

Lingering pet hair can be enough to affect many allergy sufferers, some so badly that they are unable to spend more than a few minutes in a home that contains a furry pet. Ensure that you hoover your home well before every viewing. Popping pet beds and food bowls into a cupboard is also a good way of reducing the allergens viewers will have to deal with, and it is also good practice as it will help to make a room look more spacious.

Smell

Our noses become accustomed to the smells in our living spaces, so it's essential to open the windows and let in some fresh air before every viewing. To create a welcoming atmosphere, consider freshening up your home with air fresheners or scented candles to give your property a pleasant aroma.

Clean up your garden

Remove dog mess from your garden! Although it should go without saying, some sellers overlook this. Every prospective buyer appreciates a neat and orderly garden, and that definitely means no dog mess!

Repair

Your dog might like biting the back door frame, or you may have a cat who enjoys scratching its claws on your carpet, but these problems need to be fixed before prospective buyers view your home. Little areas of disrepair can sound alarm bells for potential buyers, who may be concerned that little areas of damage may indicate that you don’t take care of the property.

By taking these steps, you can avoid having potential buyers be deterred by pet-related issues. You don't want someone to love your house but be put off by pets or pet odours, leading them to pass on making an offer. With some forward planning and consideration, you can address these concerns and increase your chances of a successful sale.

If you're considering selling your home in Edinburgh, don't hesitate to contact our team of property experts on 0131 639 6399 or send an email to office@chrisslingproperties.com. We can provide you with a free, no obligation valuation and offer advice on the best ways to maximise your property's value.