Selling a home with a pet in residence can be a difficult undertaking.
Many home buyers - even those with pets of their own at home - can be put off by yours.
Pets Can Make Visitors Nervous
No one thinks of their own pet as scary. But even the mildest mannered cat or dog (not to mention snakes or mice!) can make a visitor nervous.
Perhaps the most common response from a home seller about the "threat" posed by their pet is denial: "Buffy is a sweetheart. She won't hurt anyone."
But no owner can be certain of how a pet will respond when strangers enter the home in their absence.
An unexpected reaction could frighten potential buyers away before they've even looked at your home.
Ask Friends for Help
The safest course of action is to remove a pet from the home while it is listed for sale.
Ask friends or family members to care for the pet, or board it at a nearby facility.
If this is not possible, put your pet into a carrier during showings and alert visitors not to disturb it.
Remove Stains and Odors
Buyers also frequently take issue with a pet's impact on the cleanliness and condition of the home.
Pet stains, odors and damage are a big turn-off and can significantly decrease your home's value in the market.
Use the Professionals
To help your home bring the highest possible price, remove stains and repair any damage your pet may have caused.
Consider having your home professionally cleaned, and have a friend verify that your home doesn't have an objectionable odor.
Store pet accessories out of sight.
The goal: to create a positive first impression with potential buyers.
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