Seems everyone has a pet these days. And for many, pets rule. No room of the house is out of bounds for these furry family members. They are welcome on sofas, beds and even countertops. And why not? You love your pets. And it’s your house, right?
Trouble is, not everyone loves cats and dogs and birds and snakes or whatever is your favourite creature. Many people are allergic to pet hair. Others are afraid of dogs — even cats, and certainly pythons. Still others just don’t like how a house smells when a dog lives there.
I mention this because what to do with your cat or dog or bird will have to be given some thought before you invite prospective buyers into your home. You don’t want to turn a buyer off by the smell of kitty litter or a sweaty dog sprawled on the living room couch. And you certainly don’t want Rover to growl at, or bite, someone who just might be the buyer you’ve been waiting for!
If you’ve scheduled an Open House, plan to send the pets to family, friends, a kennel, cathouse or even a fancy day spa before house hunters show up at your door. And don’t forget to send the dog bowls and toys with them.
It may be your house, but when your home is on the market, it’s the buyers who rule.