Page 10 - REN_Mar-Apr 2021

7. Purify the air
If you have several pets, or even just one, you might consider purchasing a portable air purifier. These powerful little
towers can be toted around from room-to-room and are used to purify the air, in most cases, capturing more than
99% of dust, pollen, smoke, odor, mold spores and pet dander. The best part about this investment is you can use it
in your new house and get a jumpstart on keeping your home pet odor-free.

8. Apply a fresh coat of paint

Did you know pet dander pretty much sticks to everything? This means any porous surface, like your walls, is
susceptible to odors. If the smell in your home is particularly pungent, sealing and painting your walls might be an
option. Use a sealer/primer to cover the area before applying your chosen colour. Not only will this seal and cover the
smells, it will stage your home’s interior just in time to list.
9. Fragrance is your friend

Have a last minute showing and not enough time for a deep clean? Try using strategically placed fragrances like
diffusers, wallflowers, potpourri or scented candles as they can help mask offending odors until you have time to fully
address the problem. Just be aware, there’s a fine line when using synthetic fragrance in your home, too much can
also be a bad thing, so don’t go overboard.

10. Keep your house (and pets) clean
Consider giving your pet frequent baths or take them to be professionally groomed to reduce bacteria and yeast that
might be embedded in their fur. Use wet wipes or a towel to wipe their feet when they come in from outside. Brush
them weekly with a high-quality brush, like a Furminator, to capture the shedding undercoat fur. Depending on your
pet’s demeanor you may wish to keep them in a crate or confined to one room while you’re away to keep them off
clean furniture. Or, if you have the option to have your pet stay at a friend’s house while your house is listed, take it!

Remember, potential buyers use all their senses when touring a home, so it’s just as important to have a good smelling
home as it is a good looking one. Use these 10 tips and you’ll ban that dreaded pet smell! g

10 | REAL ESTATE NOW | denise@BCislandhomes.ca