Home Staging
How to Stage a Home with Pets for Sale

Learn how to effectively stage a home with pets for sale and attract potential buyers. Follow these expert tips and create a welcoming environment that showcases your property’s best features.
When you’re putting your home on the market, staging it to appeal to potential buyers is crucial. However, if you have pets, you face unique challenges in making your home look its best. Pets can leave behind fur, odors, and other signs of their presence, which might not sit well with some buyers. But don’t worry, with the right strategies and a bit of effort, you can stage your home in a way that highlights its charm while accommodating your furry companions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of staging a home with pets for sale, ensuring a smooth and successful selling experience.
How to Stage a Home with Pets for Sale
1. De-clutter and Organize
Before diving into the specifics of pet-friendly staging, start by de-cluttering and organizing your space. A clean and clutter-free home creates a positive first impression on potential buyers. Remove any pet-related items like toys, beds, and feeding bowls from common areas. Invest in storage solutions to keep these items out of sight during showings.
2. Neutralize Pet Odors
One of the most significant concerns when selling a home with pets is pet odors. While you might be used to them, potential buyers could be sensitive to lingering smells. To combat this, deep-clean carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding regularly. Consider using odor-absorbing products or baking soda to neutralize any pet odors in your home.
3. Repair Pet Damage
Inspect your home for any pet-related damage, such as scratches on doors or walls, chewed furniture, or stained carpets. Repair or replace damaged items as necessary to present a well-maintained home to potential buyers.
4. Depersonalize the Space
Remove personal items like pet photos and excessive pet-related decor. Depersonalizing the space helps buyers envision themselves living in the home without distractions.
5. Maximize Natural Light
A well-lit home appears more inviting and spacious. Keep curtains and blinds open during showings to allow natural light to flood the rooms. Adequate lighting can make your home feel warm and welcoming.
6. Pet Safety During Showings
On showing days, ensure your pets are safe and secure. Some buyers may be uncomfortable around animals or have allergies. Consider keeping your pets in a designated area or take them for a walk during the showing.
7. Use Pet-Friendly Furniture
If possible, incorporate pet-friendly furniture, such as stain-resistant upholstery or durable materials. This ensures your furniture remains in good condition despite the presence of pets.
8. Create Pet-Friendly Outdoor Spaces
If your home has a yard, enhance its appeal to pet lovers by creating a pet-friendly outdoor space. Add a pet play area or consider landscaping that accommodates pets.
9. Highlight Pet-Friendly Amenities
Emphasize any pet-friendly amenities your home offers, such as nearby dog parks, walking trails, or pet-friendly businesses. These amenities will appeal to potential pet owners.
10. Stage Pet Areas Creatively
If you have designated pet areas in your home, stage them creatively. Showcase a cozy pet bed or a tasteful pet feeding station to demonstrate how well your home can accommodate pets.
11. Utilize Area Rugs
Area rugs can be both stylish and practical in a pet-friendly home. They protect floors from pet-related wear and tear and add an extra touch of coziness to your living spaces.
12. Add Pet-Safe Houseplants
Incorporate pet-safe houseplants to add a touch of nature and color to your home. Avoid toxic plants that could pose a risk to pets.
13. Consider Pet-Friendly Flooring
When upgrading your flooring, consider options that are pet-friendly and easy to clean, such as hardwood or laminate.
14. Minimize Pet Distractions During Showings
While pets can be adorable, they can also distract potential buyers from focusing on the property. During showings, keep pets out of sight to prevent distractions.
15. Promote Pet Compatibility
If your home is suitable for specific types of pets (e.g., a fenced yard for dogs), highlight these features in your listing.
16. Provide Information on Pet Services
If your neighborhood offers pet services like dog-walking, grooming, or pet sitting, share this information with potential buyers.
17. Use Calming Scents
During showings, use calming scents like lavender or chamomile to create a relaxed atmosphere.
18. Address Allergen Concerns
Be prepared to address allergen concerns for potential buyers with pet allergies. Provide information on how you manage allergens in your home.
19. Stage Bedrooms Thoughtfully
Keep bedrooms tidy and neutral to appeal to buyers. Remove any signs of pets from these private spaces.
20. Exterior Clean-up
Ensure your backyard and exterior spaces are well-maintained. Remove any pet waste and make sure fences are secure.
21. Highlight Pet-Friendly Neighbors
If you have pet-friendly neighbors, mention this selling point to potential buyers.
22. Stage Your Pet’s Photo Session
Incorporate adorable photos of your pets in the listing to appeal to pet lovers. Ensure the images are well-captured and showcase the pets in their best light.
23. Professional Home Inspection
Consider hiring a professional home inspector to assess the property thoroughly, including pet-related areas.
24. Utilize Online Pet-Friendly Platforms
When listing your home, use online platforms that specifically cater to pet-friendly properties.
25. Pet Accommodations During Open Houses
If you’re hosting an open house, make arrangements for your pets to stay elsewhere during the event.
FAQs
Can I keep my pets at home during showings?
Ideally, it’s best to remove pets from the home during showings. Some buyers may be uncomfortable around animals or have allergies, so keeping your pets away during this time is a considerate approach.
Are there any specific houseplants safe for pets?
Yes, there are several houseplants that are safe for pets. Some examples include Spider Plant, Boston Fern, and Areca Palm. Be sure to research and select plants that won’t harm your furry friends.
Should I repaint my walls to cover pet-related stains?
If your walls have noticeable pet-related stains or damage, repainting can be a good idea. Choose neutral colors that appeal to a broader range of buyers.
How can I manage pet odors during showings?
To manage pet odors, ensure you regularly clean and vacuum your home. Consider using odor-absorbing products or air fresheners specifically designed for pet odors.
Should I mention nearby pet amenities in my listing?
Absolutely! Mentioning nearby pet amenities like dog parks, pet-friendly trails, or pet supply stores can attract pet owners looking for convenient options for their furry companions.
How can I minimize pet-related distractions during showings?
Before showings, tidy up and remove any visible signs of pets, including toys and feeding bowls. Keeping pets out of sight during showings can also minimize distractions.
Conclusion
Staging a home with pets for sale requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. By following these expert tips, you can create a welcoming environment that appeals to both pet lovers and non-pet owners alike. Remember to de-clutter, neutralize pet odors, and highlight your home’s pet-friendly features. With a well-staged home, you’ll increase your chances of attracting potential buyers and securing a successful sale.