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Caring For Pets When Selling Your Home

By
Real Estate Agent with Keller Williams Realty

Homeowner with pets, and selling their home, need to make decisions on how to care for their pets.  The homeowner needs to realize there are buyers who may be frightened, allergic or turned off to animals. Many times it is difficult to identify the size of a barking dog at the front door, this is a sure way to scare off a potential buyer.  It is extremely important that seller makes sure their listing agent identifies in the MLS listing what pets are present on the property and how the potential buyer is being protected from the pets.  Be sure to identify where the pets are located, so not to surprise people.  In addition, it is a good idea to have a large note as you enter the home identifying where the pets are located and how the buyers are being protected.  Never have a loose dog in the backyard; this may prevent the potential buyer from looking at the backyard, therefore, loose a sale.  If an animal is large, it would be better the seller made arrangement to have the animal off of the property during showings.  Make sure to have all animals in a cage, including birds and reptiles.  Birds and retiles recommend they be covered if at all possible.  

Finally, many homeowners need to make repairs to damages caused by pets both inside and outside of the house.  Make sure home is clean frequently to avoid animal smells.  Many times the carpets and air ducts should be professionally cleaned.  It is important the home sparkles.