PETS & PITFALLS

by Gail Pretorius • 3 MIN • 587 Words

As Jacques Pretorius from Matzikama Properties in the Northern Cape Upington area, I understand that selling your beloved home can be a journey filled with excitement and, sometimes, a few hidden hurdles – especially when your furry, feathered, or scaly family members are part of the equation. While our pets bring immense joy and make a house a home, their presence can, unintentionally, create certain "pitfalls" when it comes to attracting potential buyers.

Here are the key pitfalls pet owners should be on the lookout for, and my advice to ensure a smooth sale for your property:

Lingering Odours and Stains: What you've grown accustomed to, a potential buyer will notice immediately. Pet odours and visible stains on carpets, upholstery, or even walls can be an instant turn-off, suggesting a lack of maintenance.

My Advice: Invest in a professional deep clean for your entire home, focusing on carpets, curtains, and any "hot spots" where your pets spend a lot of time. Address stubborn stains by replacing affected areas if necessary. Air out your home thoroughly and use natural odor neutralisers rather than strong, artificial air fresheners, which can also be off-putting.

Pet-Related Damage: Scratches on doors, floors, and walls, chewed skirting boards, or "landscaping" done by a digging dog in the garden are clear signs of pet habitation. Buyers will factor in the cost of repairs, potentially leading to lower offers.

My Advice: Before listing, meticulously inspect your property for any pet damage, both indoors and outdoors. Repair scratches, repaint marked walls, fix chewed woodwork, and tend to any dug-up areas in the garden. This small investment can significantly enhance your home's perceived value.

The Presence of Pets During Showings: While your pets are part of your family, not all buyers are pet lovers, and some may have allergies or even fears. An overly enthusiastic dog or a curious cat can be a major distraction, preventing buyers from truly envisioning themselves in the space.

My Advice: The ideal scenario is to remove your pets from the property entirely during viewings. Arrange for them to stay with a friend, family member, or at a reputable pet sitter. If this isn't possible, ensure they are securely confined in an unviewed area (like a crate in the garage) with a clear note for agents, and all pet paraphernalia is out of sight.

Visible Pet Paraphernalia: Food bowls, litter boxes, pet beds, toys, and leashes, when left in plain sight, can make a home feel cluttered and less appealing to potential buyers. It also highlights the presence of pets, which, as mentioned, can be a negative for some.

My Advice: Before every showing, ensure all pet accessories are neatly stored away in cupboards or discreet storage containers. The goal is to "de-personalise" and "de-pet" the home so buyers can imagine it as their own.

Safety and Liability Concerns: While rare, a nervous or territorial pet could react negatively to strangers, potentially leading to a bite or scratch. This is a serious concern for both buyers and agents.

My Advice: This reinforces the importance of removing pets during showings. If a pet must remain, ensure they are securely contained in a way that eliminates any risk of interaction with visitors.

By proactively addressing these common pitfalls, you can present your Matzikama property in its best light, appeal to a wider range of buyers, and achieve the successful sale you deserve. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to Matzikama Properties – we're here to help!

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