If you are selling your home and have pets, you have probably been told to remove every trace of them before each inspection. Bowls, toys, litter trays, the lot. For many owners, that means a frantic Saturday morning scramble to get the house looking as though no animal has ever lived there.

At Holly and Williams, we often encourage a different approach.

These days, especially since COVID, pets are a huge part of people’s lives. Many of your prospective buyers already have pets, have had them in the past, or plan to get one in the future. When they see your home set up for a furry friend, it can make the space feel authentic, warm and inviting. It can even help them imagine their own pet there.

Of course, your pets and you will not be home during the inspections, but leaving a few carefully presented touches can make a difference. The trick is to show your home in its best light while still acknowledging that it is pet-friendly. 

Do’s and Don’ts for Selling with Pets

Do:

• Keep water and food bowls clean and give the area a quick wipe down before inspections.

• Make sure pet bedding is fresh and neatly placed in a low-traffic area.

• Have your pet groomed and clean before inspection days to minimise hair around the home.

• Ensure the backyard is tidy, with lawns mowed and any pet mess removed.

Don’t:

• Leave litter trays, puppy pads or chewed toys in plain sight.

• Ignore pet odours, as even animal lovers prefer a fresh-smelling home.

• Let buyers be greeted by excessive pet hair on furniture or rugs.

• Overload the space with pet-related items. One or two is charming, too many can feel cluttered.

The Bottom Line

Your home tells a story during a sale, and your pets can be part of that story. When presented well, they do not just make the home feel more welcoming, they can help buyers picture their own lives there.

Thinking of selling your home in Prahran or across inner Melbourne? At Holly and Williams, we specialise in tailored private sale campaigns that highlight what makes your property unique. Our personalised approach ensures every detail is considered to achieve the best possible result. Contact us today to arrange a confidential property appraisal and find out how we can help you sell for the highest price in the current market.