Selling a Home with Pets

If you are an animal lover, chances are you will have a pet in your home. Although we all love our fur babies, when it comes to selling your home, the little darlings will need to be removed from the home during showings.

Reasons

Even animal loving enthusiasts looking to purchase a home are typically on a mission and aren't interested in playing fetch with Fido or watching Fluffy jump on the counter and meow for attention. Let's be honest, no one loves our pets like we do!

Some people also have a huge fear of dogs and cats. Cynophobia is an intense fear of dogs. For a person with cynophobia, being near a dog can trigger an extreme emotional response, including heart palpitations, panic attacks, and feelings of dread. This might not make a good first impression during a showing!

Although your pet may be the sweetest animal on the planet, they may growl and bark at complete strangers when they enter the home. Rule of thumb.... just remove the pets.

What to do with Pets during a Showing

• Hire a dog sitter, dog walker or possibly a neighbor to remove pets during showings.

• Take your dog to work with you if possible.

• Check out local doggie day cares if availble in your area.

• Ask a family member or friend to keep your pet while your home is on the market.

Preparing your home when selling with Pets

The absence of any pets is the goal when preparing your home for sale. Stained floors, offensive smells or pet hair are a few of the immediate "turn offs" for buyers.

Consider having your carpets and floors professionally cleaned to remove any stains or odors that may linger.

Remove all litter boxes, puppy pads, dog blankets and beds. You want a neutral smell when buyers enter your home. The old saying noseblind is completely true when you have pets in your home. Ask a friend or neighbor to come in and tell you what they smell.

Vaccuum and clean all furniture, curtains, and bedding.

The more preparation you do, the quicker you should receive an offer so that you can find you and your pets a new home!