What a beautiful fall we are having this year, it is almost making up for the rainy summer.

Especially if you are selling your home, it’s time to rake up all of those beautiful leaves on a regular basis, you don’t want your home to look unkept. Don’t throw them out with your regular garbage though, The City of Calgary has a leaf and pumpkin composting program. To find out your designated drop off location, check out this map.

Check out this fabulous Calgary home in North Glenmore we did a home staging consultation for. Lina Horner, RE/MAX House of Real Estate, is hosting an open house this Saturday and Sunday October 2 & 3 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
(MLS# C3446888).

Many people, including myself, don’t view pets as pets, but rather as family members. So it’s hard to imagine “banishing” them from our home when it is for sale. Unfortunately, not everyone loves your pet as much as you do, especially someone with allergies. According to Allergic Living, 20-30% of young adults suffer from allergies, the numbers get higher with kids. The goal is for your prospective buyers to fall in love with your property and feel at home, but if they are suffering from their stuffed nose this result will be much harder to achieve.

Some options to consider: if you already have a new home, let your pets move in first. Do you have a family member, friend or neighbour that could pet sit while your home is for sale? There also are companies that do take care of pets. Make sure to remove all traces of their fur and dander before showing your home.

If none of these options will work for your family, keep your pets in one area of the home, particularly an area without fabric (this includes carpet). Consider displaying leather or vinyl furniture and if possible, take your pets for a walk or drive during showings.

References: Allergic Living – Pet Allergies: A Gander at Dander (Sept 22, 2010)
Images: iStock Photo (Sept 22, 2010)

If you are buying a home, it is so important to get a home inspection done from a qualified professional.

It’s also a good idea to get a home inspection report done if you are selling, so you can tackle any projects that could intimidate prospective buyers. Still not convinced? Renata D’Aliesio’s article from the Calgary Herald “Leaky homes anger buyers” may change your mind.