With millions of dogs and cats as members of American families, there's a good chance that you've got pets sharing the home you're trying to sell.  Since not everyone enjoys the company of animals, there are some measures you should consider taking before prospective buyers come over for a showing.

Pet odors are the biggest problem sellers face, but they can be easily minimized with thorough cleaning and vacuuming, and vigilant duty with the litter boxes.  Black lights are available that help you to pinpoint the origin of any mysterious smells.  It also makes a good impression if you pick up and store toys, bedding, and food and water bowls while your home is being shown to buyers.

If at all possible, take your dog(s) out with you when an agent brings visitors, or ask a friend or family member to keep your pet during the initial listing period.  This will help reduce the stress on your pet at a time when showings are usually more frequent.

Another way to put buyers more at ease with their purchase is to offer a cleaning credit or allowance.  Even if you're certain you'll remove all evidence of your beloved pets before vacating your home, the buyers may not share your confidence. 

Why not offer these gestures of good will, thereby encouraging a better offer from the buyers?

Larry Weichman is President/ Broker for Costa Mesa based Weichman Realtors. His company has served Costa Mesa since 1976.  Larry also has over 15 years of experience in Bank Repos and Short Sales and non foreclosed real estate, his clients include General Electric Mortgage, Home Savings, Associates Finance, Transamerica. Current clients include Bank of America, Ocwen Financial Corporation, Countrywide and Keystone Asset Management to name a few. Larry is President of Weichman Associates located in Costa Mesa California. He has sold real estate since 1976 and is a 3rd generation Real Estate Broker. Larry has closed escrow on over 1,100 properties; from townhomes to commercial buildings. Please be sure to visit us on the Internet at www.TeamWeichman.com, www.OCHomeTracker.com or www.OCRepoBroker.com or you can call me at 714-241-4532