We all love our pets, but when it comes to selling up or moving house… estate agents often get asked “How do I do viewings when my pets are around and will having pets affect my sale?”
While some homeowners have strict outside pet rules, most pets are inside homes as a member of the family. The most popular individual pet owned in the United Kingdom is the dog, with 26% of people owning one. In total, 45% of the UK population own a pet.
Most of the 45% of people who own a pet in the UK will have no related issues selling their house. However, if your pets have caused damage to your home, are intimidating, smelly or there are just too many of them, that could cost you dearly, knocking up to five per cent off the asking price according to research*…
So, when you decide to put the house on the market you may need to consider the following…
*Cleaning – Let’s be honest… in any photoshoot or viewing most people do some serious housecleaning and de-cluttering – this is standard practice.
*Have your furry friends caused any damage – Chewed skirting boards? Scratched surfaces? Clawed carpet? Tunnelled holes in your garden?
*What’s that smell? During viewings is it possible to movethat cat tray to the utlity room, garage or outside whilst the viewings take place? Make sure your garden is cleared of any ‘deposits’. Is it time to book a special trip to the doggy parlour or order a new bed for your pet?
*Viewings – pets can be territorial, so it maybe best for your pet to maybe go for a walk whilst the viewing takes place or visit a friend or family member if appropriate?
Another important thing to keep in mind is that your pet has its own needs, needs that are best discussed with your vet. Talk them about what you plan on doing, and how it will work with your specific pet or pets. This is especially important when your pet is older and may not adjust well to change. Selling a home can be just as stressful for the pet as it is for the homeowner.
