So your house is on the market, but you’re worried about the role that your pets play in the selling process. This is a fairly common problem but is not always an easy one to solve. Potential buyers could be allergic to fur, nervous around animals, or turned off by fur or litter boxes around the house. And you don’t want to turn away potential buyers! Here are some tips to help make the process as smooth as possible:
1. Relocate your pets, if possible. This isn’t an easy thing for pet owners to do. But if you have a good place to keep them (a kennel you trust or a family member’s house), especially if it’s only for a short amount of time, this is the best option. If you don’t feel comfortable with this, I completely understand, though. So there are some alternatives.
2. Keep the house clean. This is going to take a good amount of work, but is absolutely worth it. If you have a showing or open house planned, vacuum beforehand. Eliminate fur from the furniture, floors and carpet. Put away all pet toys and food. Pack up cat trees, litter boxes, cages, etc. Take down pet photos. Eliminate as many signs of pets as possible.
3. Fix any pet damage. Hire professionals to eliminate any pet stains that might exist. Fix scratches on the floor or holes in the yard. You want your house to look the best that it can. Also eliminate pet odors using natural, unscented products rather than scented ones. Otherwise, the smell could bother potential buyers.
4. Keep your pets safe and concealed. During a showing, keep your pets in a comfortable cage and add a note that reminds potential buyers not to open it. You don’t want buyers to worry about a dog biting them and you definitely don’t want your pet escaping when they open the door. Or, take your pets with you during showings so there’s no risk at all.
5. Talk to your vet. You veterinarian can help you figure out the best solution for both you and your pets. Remember, they have their own needs and you don’t want to stress them out if at all possible.
Just keep in mind that you need to find a balance between what’s best for you and potential buyers and your pets. Best of luck in the selling process!
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