Pets Are NOT People, Part 2

Last week I wrote a post in an attempt to shed light on the impact pets have on a homes chances of selling. I wanted to get everyone's attention and the title did. Let me say one more time: I LOVE PETS!!! I understand some pet owners feel their pets are family members and some think their pets are better than people and that is fine. The whole point is that if, during a showing, a potential buyer is looking at the dog, cat, ferret, chicken or pot bellied pig, They are NOT focusing on the home for sale. Due to the overwhelming response I felt I should clarify a few things. There were a large number of replies that had similar situations of aggressive dogs and cats and most all commented on the pet odors that were killing sales. One commenter attempted to put the blame back on the agent saying we should stop complaining because it was our job to find a way around the pet issue. A few simple things could have saved most of the bad showings. Here are a few things that could have helped.

Agents:

1. When taking a listing be as honest as you can about the negative impact on pets and odors (and any other negatives) and think of what can be done to enhance showings.

2. Maybe bring a copy of my last post and show your seller all of the negative comments received regarding pet issues. Most pet owners have no idea how strongly buyers feel about these issues.

3. Keep in mind, to some their pet IS a family member that you are discussing. You would be careful how you told them about their kids, give their pets the same courtesy.

Sellers:

1. While you pets are cute and cuddly to you they are at least a distraction to potential buyers. If you can find a pet sitter it will greatly improve your odds of selling without them there during a showing.

2. Come up with a game plan before you list as to how to handle your pets during showings. Leaving large aggressive dogs in the garage or a bedroom still has negative impact as the buyers can still hear the barking and growling. Like you would hire a sitter for your kids, maybe have someone who can take the pet for a walk.

3. You may have became accustomed to the odor of pets but the buyer may be offended. Keep litter boxes clean and carpets shampooed regularly to help keep odors to a minimum.

4. Understand while your thoughts are important, the ONLY opinion that counts during a showing is that of the potential buyer. Right or wrong their thoughts can kill a deal or make a sale depending on how they think the showing went.

Buyers:

1. Be as upfront and honest as you can to your agent about fears or allergies. It can help narrow your search and limit showings to homes better suited to your needs.

2. Understand we all have busy schedules and sometimes it is just impossible to remove pets for showings. IF you are uncomfortable let your agent know and they will reschedule after the pets have been removed.

3. Be as on time as you can in regards to showings. If too early or late pets that were (or to be) removed may be there. Skipping homes can throw entire day off by half an hour.

While there is no fix to cure all issues just a little pre planning and patience goes a long way towards getting a home sold and THAT is what we are all there for. Best of luck in all you do.