For many homeowners, pets are beloved family members, and their needs are a top priority when designing or staging a home. However, when it comes to selling your property, a balance must be struck between showcasing your space as a pet friendly home and appealing to potential buyers who may not have pets. With thoughtful design and staging, you can create a home that highlights pet-friendly features while maintaining a clean, attractive aesthetic that appeals to a broad audience.
At HolmeStage, a leading staging company in Los Angeles, we specialize in staging homes to attract buyers while addressing the needs of pet-loving households. Here’s how you can create a pet-friendly home that buyers will love.
1. Prioritize Cleanliness and Odor Control
A clean, fresh-smelling home is crucial when staging, especially if pets are present. Even the most charming pet friendly home can lose its appeal if odors or messes are noticeable.
Tips for Cleanliness:
- Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Use professional cleaning services to remove pet hair, stains, and odors.
- Wash Pet Bedding and Toys: Keep these items fresh and neatly stored when not in use.
- Neutralize Odors: Use pet-safe air purifiers and odor-neutralizing sprays to keep the home smelling fresh.
- Regular Grooming: Grooming pets regularly reduces shedding and keeps the home cleaner.
Pro Tip: Avoid heavily scented candles or sprays that might mask odors but turn off buyers who are sensitive to strong smells.
2. Highlight Pet Friendly Features
Buyers with pets will be drawn to homes with features that accommodate their furry friends. Showcasing these elements can make your property more appealing.
Features to Highlight:
- Durable Flooring: If your home has scratch-resistant hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, emphasize their durability.
- Fenced Yard: A secure outdoor space is a major selling point for pet owners. Ensure it’s well-maintained and safe.
- Built-In Pet Spaces: Features like pet doors, feeding stations, or built-in kennels can add value.
- Easy-to-Clean Areas: Highlight mudrooms or laundry areas that can double as pet washing or grooming stations.
Pro Tip: Point out features that are versatile for buyers without pets, such as a fenced yard doubling as a child-friendly play area.
3. Declutter and Organize Pet Items
While showcasing pet friendly features is important, too many visible pet items can make a home feel cluttered. Strike a balance by minimizing and organizing these items.
Decluttering Tips:
- Toys: Keep only a few clean, aesthetically pleasing toys visible, and store the rest in bins.
- Food and Water Bowls: Use stylish or neutral-colored bowls and keep them in a designated area.
- Litter Boxes: Place litter boxes in discreet, odor-controlled spaces.
- Leashes and Collars: Hang these neatly in a mudroom or entryway.
Pro Tip: Buyers want to envision their lives in the home, so reduce overly personalized pet decor.
4. Stage Outdoor Spaces for Pets
If your property has outdoor areas, stage them to show how they can accommodate pets. A well-maintained yard can significantly boost your home’s appeal to pet owners.
Outdoor Staging Ideas:
- Pet Play Areas: Set up a small area with a doghouse, toys, or agility equipment.
- Shade and Shelter: Highlight shaded spots or outdoor shelters for pets.
- Safe Landscaping: Remove toxic plants and highlight pet-friendly landscaping.
- Cleanliness: Ensure the yard is free of pet waste and well-maintained.
Pro Tip: Showcase the yard as a space for relaxation or entertainment that also happens to be pet-friendly.
5. Add Pet-Friendly Design Touches
Incorporate subtle pet friendly design elements that add charm to the home without alienating non-pet-owning buyers.
Design Ideas:
- Pet Beds: Use stylish, neutral-colored pet beds that blend seamlessly with the decor.
- Decorative Storage: Opt for attractive bins or baskets to store pet toys and supplies.
- Rugs and Mats: Use washable, stain-resistant rugs in high-traffic areas.
- Scratch Protection: Highlight scratch-resistant furniture or materials for durability.
Pro Tip: Ensure all pet-related decor feels intentional and complements the overall design of the home.
6. Minimize Pet Presence During Showings
While it’s important to showcase your home as pet-friendly, it’s best to minimize the actual presence of pets during showings. This allows buyers who may not be pet lovers to view the home without distractions.
Showing Tips:
- Relocate Pets Temporarily: Arrange for pets to stay with a friend, family member, or at a pet daycare during open houses.
- Remove Pet Evidence: Tidy up toys, beds, and food bowls to keep the home neutral.
- Eliminate Odors: Use an air purifier or open windows to ensure the home smells fresh.
Pro Tip: While it’s important to downplay pets during showings, mention the home’s pet-friendly features in the listing description.
7. Appeal to Non-Pet Owners
Even if your home is pet friendly, it’s crucial to appeal to buyers who don’t own pets. Keep the design neutral and emphasize versatile features.
Dual Appeal Tips:
- Neutral Colors: Avoid overly pet-themed decor or bright colors that might not match a buyer’s style.
- Functional Features: Highlight how pet friendly elements, like durable flooring or outdoor spaces, benefit all buyers.
- Clean Presentation: A spotless home reassures non-pet owners that the property has been well-maintained.
Pro Tip: Emphasize the potential of each space without overly focusing on its pet-related use.
Conclusion
Creating a pet friendly home that appeals to buyers is all about balance. By emphasizing cleanliness, showcasing functional features, and adding subtle design touches, you can make your home irresistible to pet owners while still appealing to a broad audience. Whether you’re selling your home or simply improving its functionality, these tips will help you create a space that both pets and people can enjoy.
For expert staging services that highlight every feature of your home, contact HolmeStage, the premier staging company in Los Angeles. Let us help you transform your home into a buyer’s dream, no matter how many paws are running around!
