How to Prepare your Home for Sale with Pets

How to Prepare Your Home for Sale When You Have Pets

Selling your home when you have pets does not have to be stressful. While pets are beloved members of the family, buyers need to picture themselves living in the property, and that means presenting a clean, neutral and well-maintained home. With the right preparation, you can appeal to a wide range of buyers while keeping your pets comfortable.

1. Eliminate Pet Odours and Hair

Pet smells and fur are often the first things buyers notice, even if you don’t.

Deep clean carpets, rugs, upholstery and curtains Wash pet bedding, toys and blankets Vacuum thoroughly, including corners and skirting boards Use light, neutral scents to freshen the home A fresh-smelling home creates an immediate positive impression.

2. Repair Pet-Related Wear and Tear

Scratches and marks can signal neglect to buyers.

Repair scratched doors, walls and floorboards Touch up paint where pets may have rubbed Consider replacing heavily worn carpets Small fixes can significantly improve perceived value.

3. Declutter Pet Accessories

Too many pet items can distract buyers from the space itself.

Pack away bowls, litter trays, toys and leads Store pet food out of sight Aim for clean, open and uncluttered rooms Neutral spaces help buyers imagine their own lifestyle.

4. Manage Pets During Inspections

Not every buyer is a pet lover, and some may have allergies.

Arrange for pets to be off-site during inspections where possible If pets remain home, keep them contained and comfortable Ensure outdoor areas are clean and tidy This creates a calm, welcoming inspection experience.

5. Highlight Pet-Friendly Features

If appropriate, features such as secure fencing, low-maintenance yards or durable flooring can be appealing, especially to pet-owning buyers. Your agent can position these as added value without overpowering the presentation.

At Wiseberry, we know that thoughtful preparation makes all the difference. With the right strategy, you can attract more buyers and achieve the best possible result, pets included.