Home Staging with Pets: Tips for a Pet-Friendly Yet Buyer-Approved Space
When it comes to home staging, there’s one element many homeowners might overlook—pets! Whether you have a dog, cat, or even a few small creatures, your pets can have a big impact on the overall feel of a home, especially when it’s time to sell. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space, and while pets are a beloved part of many families, too many pet-related items can distract from the home’s potential.
Here are some essential tips for staging a pet-friendly home that will appeal to buyers without sacrificing comfort for your furry friends:
1. Cleanliness is Key
The first step in staging a home with pets is to ensure the space is clean. Pet hair, odors, and stains can be major turn-offs for buyers. Make sure carpets are deep-cleaned, pet bedding is washed, and any noticeable pet odors are neutralized. If necessary, consider having a professional cleaning service or carpet cleaner come in to ensure every corner smells fresh and feels inviting.
2. Hide Pet Toys and Accessories
While it’s important to keep your pets’ favorite toys and belongings, they shouldn’t take center stage in your home’s decor. Remove excess pet toys, grooming supplies, and food bowls before showings. This helps buyers focus on the space itself rather than on the fact that a pet lives there.
3. Create Pet-Free Zones
As much as pets love certain areas of the home, staging requires showcasing how a room can be used for its best potential. If your pets have taken over the couch or a bed, consider temporarily relocating them to create a cleaner, more neutral appearance. This is particularly important in living rooms and bedrooms, which should look like ideal spaces for relaxation and comfort.
4. Highlight Pet-Friendly Features
On the flip side, make sure to highlight any pet-friendly features the home has. For example, if there’s a large fenced-in yard or a cozy nook for a pet bed, be sure to emphasize these areas. Buyers with pets will appreciate knowing that your home can accommodate their furry friends comfortably. If you have a designated pet area or a pet washing station, include it in the home’s features.
5. Neutralize Furniture and Decor
While pet-friendly furniture is essential, staging requires balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. Avoid pet-related prints or furniture in bright colors that may seem too personalized for buyers. Instead, opt for neutral-colored couches, chairs, and rugs that can stand up to pet wear and tear but still feel stylish and inviting.
6. Minimize Evidence of Pets
Sometimes, less is more. While buyers won’t expect a pet-free home, minimizing obvious signs of pet ownership can help create a neutral space. This means removing pet beds, crates, scratching posts, and litter boxes from common areas. A discreetly placed pet bed in a corner or a small bowl of water tucked away in the kitchen may be just enough to show your home’s pet-friendly side.
7. Repair Any Damage
Pets, especially active ones, can cause some wear and tear on a home. Check for any scratches on the floors, walls, or doors, and make repairs before putting the home on the market. Not only does this keep your home looking pristine, but it also prevents potential buyers from being distracted by any imperfections that could be seen as a costly repair.
8. Keep Pet-Related Scents in Check
Sometimes, pets leave behind a lingering smell that cleaning can’t always fix. If necessary, use air purifiers or odor-neutralizing sprays in key areas, especially if the space has carpet or upholstery. When preparing for a showing, also avoid strong scents like candles, as they might clash with pet-related smells. Fresh air is always best—open windows and let the home breathe.
9. Consider Pet-Related Staging
For homes with larger pet families, consider subtly incorporating pet-related items into your staging. This can include a plush throw or stylish pet-friendly decor, such as a decorative pet bowl or a tasteful pet art print. These touches can help buyers visualize their pets in the home without feeling overwhelmed by pet-related clutter.