When it comes time to put your Oakland or Alameda home on the market, plans need to be made to make the best impression possible on future buyers.  Often a lot of preparation time and money is spent on yards, kitchens and bedrooms, but there can be one feature that could deter potential buyers. That can be the presence of uncorrected damage, or the presence of odors, from pets in the home.  Whether unrepaired scratches on back doors or screens, or the accumulation of debris, or fence damage in the back yard, these issues should be addressed.  Often, because sellers haved lived with their pets for so long, they may not be aware of the extent of their pet problems. Take time to see things from the eyes of an outsider.

The next step is to make plans to have your home ready for home tours and open homes.  Obviously, you cannot keep your home in showroom condition 24 hours a day with pets, but when you know buyers will be coming, consider the following steps for the best showing:

a. Arrange for the pet to be placed elsewhere during open houses or showings--Most buyers want to concentrate on the home, and not be distracted by friendly pooches or kitties who may want immediate attention.  You don't want them to miss all the fine features of your home because of this distraction.

b. Keep all feeding and watering bowls clean and pleasant looking--In addition, wash the pet bedding on a regularly scheduled basis to keep things smelling fresh.  If possible, put all this away for that very short while before a showing. 

c. Keep your floors litter free--Before a showing, if possible, pick up all pet toys, scratching posts, chew bones, and anything else scattered about and underfoot. While you know where they are, they can be a walking hazard to visitors, and are not attractive.

d. Keep litter boxes super clean-We have mentioned the need of having a fresh, clean smelling atmophere throughout the home.  The boxes should be nowhere in site during the house tour.

While this may seem a bit fussy, remember that the attention should always be on your home, and not your pet issues.  Once you set up a plan to include these steps in your house tour preparations, it becomes quick and easy. 

 

 

 

Posted by Bruce Wagg on

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