When you’re buying a home on the Central Coast, there’s plenty to think about. As local buyers agents, we guide clients through everything from location and budget to building reports and lifestyle goals. One thing many buyers don’t consider, though, is whether the previous owner had pets.
It might not sound like a big deal, but homes that previously had pets often come with a few quirks. Some are minor, some more noticeable. And depending on your situation, it could be an opportunity to save thousands.
Here’s what we look for at Next Step Buyers Agent when inspecting properties that have had pets, and how you can turn a great property with a few pet-related issues into a smart buy.
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What to Look for When Buying a Central Coast Property With a Pet History
Not all sellers disclose whether they had pets, but there are signs that can give it away. As buyers agents, we’ve learned to spot the details many buyers miss:
• Scratch marks on floors, doors or walls
• Pet smells in carpets or underflooring
• Worn-out or patchy lawn areas
• Pet doors or fencing modifications
• Loose fur in corners or vents
• Damaged or stained floors from water bowls or accidents
If you’re working with allergies or simply want a fresh-feeling space, it helps to identify these early. The good news is, most of these issues are cosmetic and can be resolved with professional cleaning or minor repairs.
In fact, one part of our job as buyers agents is to help clients spot quality homes that may just need a good clean and freshen up. These properties often sell for far less than places that are styled to perfection. That means you could secure a better location or layout for the same price, with a little elbow grease.
What Kind of Pet Damage Should You Be Aware Of?
Homes that have had pets usually have typical wear and tear, but there are a few areas you should inspect more closely before making an offer:
- Carpets: look for smells, stains or lifted sections
- Timber or vinyl floors: check for deep scratches or discolouration
- Doors and walls: chew marks, scratch marks or paint repairs
- Yards: signs of digging, worn patches or broken fencing
- Air conditioning systems: buildup of pet dander in vents
- Odours: if you notice any strong smells, they may have soaked into underlay or flooring
As your buyers agent, we’ll walk you through these issues and help you decide whether they’re worth fixing or if they should affect the sale price.
What About Pet Burials in the Backyard?
In the past, it was common for families to bury pets in the backyard. This was especially true on larger Central Coast blocks. Many buyers find the idea uncomfortable, but thankfully it’s far less common today.
Most modern pet owners now choose cremation rather than burial. They want to take their pet’s memory with them when they move, not leave it behind.
That’s where services like trusted local Central Coast pet cremators like Pet Memorial Australia have come in. More owners now opt for pet urns, cremation memorials or keepsakes, making it easier to move and still honour their pets.
As buyers agents, we rarely come across pet burials anymore. And if we suspect one, we’ll always raise it with you so you can make an informed choice.
Don’t Forget to Check the Automatic Gates
Another thing to keep an eye out for is automatic gates. Some pet owners install electric or remote-controlled gates to help keep their pets secure in the yard. These are a great feature for families, but like anything mechanical, they need regular servicing to stay safe and reliable.
If the property you’re buying has an automatic gate, we recommend getting it checked by a professional before settlement. Reach out to the team at Auto Gate Guys Central Coast for a quick inspection or service. They’ll make sure everything’s running smoothly and give you peace of mind that the gate won’t break down as soon as you move in.
Is a Pet-Friendly Property a Dealbreaker?
Not at all. In fact, some of the best-value properties we find for our clients are ones that look a little rough around the edges. If a home has minor cosmetic issues from pets, it can often be negotiated down in price.
Buyers who can see past a few smells or scuff marks are usually rewarded with better long-term value, especially when the structure and location are solid.
At Next Step Buyers Agent, we’ll help you:
- Inspect and identify any hidden pet-related damage
- Budget for cleaning or minor fixes
- Connect with trusted local cleaners or trades if needed
- Negotiate price based on the condition of the home
Our role is to protect your interests and uncover the true condition of the home, not just what it looks like at first glance.
Central Coast Buyers Agent Tip: Don’t Rule Out a Pet Home
If you’re buying on the Central Coast, chances are many of the homes you’ll see have had pets. That’s not a problem if you know what to look for and you have a buyers agent who’s got your back.
We often help clients snap up great properties that others overlook just because they smell a bit off or need a carpet replacement. With a bit of cleaning, a coat of paint and new flooring, you could turn a tired-looking home into something fresh, comfortable and uniquely yours without paying top dollar.
If you’re worried about allergies, we can also help you explore options for air quality testing, deeper cleaning or remediation.
Don’t Let Pet Wear Scare You Off a Great Home
A Central Coast home that once had pets shouldn’t put you off. It could actually be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. At Next Step Buyers Agent, we help buyers see past surface issues and uncover true value in the market.
If you’re ready to find the right home without the guesswork, get in touch with our team at Next Step Buyers Agent. We’ll guide you through every step of the buying journey, from inspections to negotiations and beyond.