I have these older 'mature' clients with five dogs, two cats, and a room full of large birds. There is an old dog, a new pup and perhaps a few in between that are not housebroke. The bird cages get cleaned infrequently and the litter box in the "cat room" is overwhelming. I first showed this home when it was listed with another agent. When the owners were home they asked me to honestly answer if I felt their home smelled like dogs... "I replied.... "Honestly... I don't smell dog. I own a dog. It is overpowered by the smell of cat." It was so bad that hours later I could still smell it on my clothes. Months later the listing expired and they called me to list the home. I told them I suspected that since they live with it daily they just don't smell it. But really I suspect it is also that since they are mature their noses are just not as sensitive as my younger clients. I told them I would be willing to list the property if they were willing to invest some money to prepare the house to sell. They had already removed the carpet on the previous agents advise. She also intelligently suggested they didn't replace it as it would be quickly in the same condition as the first carpet. Moving out is not an option. After all, who would rent to them?
I had them remove all the rest of the carpet, and pad and treat the floor with Clorox wood and then one of the products intended for animal odor and we are now in the process of putting travertine tile thru-out the house. A huge and costly adventure. But it made me think while I sit in front of my computer on ActiveRain that perhaps someone else might have a bit of advise. This is a wonderful home, constructed by a respected builder and only about five years old. It is in a highly desirable neighborhood. In spite of their weakness for their animals they are the nicest people. They really need to sell in a bad market. The location will sell it. But only after all the other homes for sale in this limited neighborhood are sold. Any advise anyone?? Help!
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