Selling a home with pets present requires careful planning and extra attention to detail because home shoppers may feel uncomfortable or distracted by animal signs, whether they are animal enthusiasts or not. The key is to neutralize concerns while showcasing the home’s appeal. Start by thoroughly cleaning every area of your home, paying special attention to carpets, upholstery, and hard surfaces where pet hair, dander, and odors can linger. Use enzyme-based cleaners to eliminate pet stains and odors at the source rather than covering them with scented sprays or candles, which can trigger sensitivities or discomfort. Book a commercial-grade steam treatment for textiles, and ensure all edges and pet-access points are spotless.

Make the home animal-free when buyers are present. Remove toys, food and water bowls, litter boxes, and any visible signs of pet activity. If possible, have a friend, family member, or professional pet sitter take your animals to their home or a local park during open houses and private viewings. This allows buyers to see the home as their own, free from pet-related anxieties. A well-mannered pet can still cause discomfort or break buyer focus.

Tuck away all pet belongings discreetly. Conceal all pet accessories in enclosed storage units. Fix any areas damaged by pets prior to going on the market. Repair wall marks, renew flooring, and rejuvenate scratched cabinetry. These minor fixes can make a big difference in how buyers perceive the condition of your home.

If your animal tends to vocalize, work to quiet it before viewings. Consider hiring a trainer, using calming aids, or scheduling quiet time during peak viewing hours. Excessive sound can deter potential purchasers. Leading buyers to assume the house is noisy or demanding.

Be mindful of lingering smells. While you may be used to your pet’s natural odor, others may not be. Bathe your pet frequently using gentle, fragrance-free products. Use a HEPA-equipped vacuum daily to trap dander and particles. Let fresh air circulate through every room. And use odor absorbers like baking soda in areas prone to smells. Avoid using heavy air fresheners or scented candles, as these can trigger allergies or seem artificial.

If you have an outdoor space, make sure the yard is tidy and free of pet waste. Clean up solids daily and repair lawn damage caused by pet urine. A well-maintained yard signals care and upkeep, which appeals to buyers.

Be ready to respond thoughtfully when buyers ask about pets. If a buyer asks about pets, acknowledge them positively—mention that your pet was a beloved family member and that the home is pet-friendly. Keep answers concise and focused. Shift the conversation to the property’s strengths, not pet behaviors. Buyers often value homes with history—they feel lived-in and inviting. The property must appear sanitized, impersonal, and immediately habitable.

By taking the First time home buyer Peterborough to depersonalize the space, eliminate odors and messes, and present your home in the best possible light. You can still close a deal despite having animals in the house. Your aim is to let buyers envision their future here, not recall your pet’s footprint.