Sorry Mr. Listing Agent, but if the dogs aren't secured, I won't let my clients in your listing.
Ms. Listing Agent also agrees. There is a responsibility to keep everyone safe particularly on large breed dogs. You just never know so why take a risk of anyone being alarmed or harmed? There is also the issue of noise. Buyers want to focus on the home so bark free is best. Take care with your pets!
First let me say that I love dogs. I have two myself, and wouldn't give them up for anything. I'm not selling my house though, so they have complete run of the house to do what dogs do.
The other day I was showing homes and came to one where I did have an appointment. I was told that someone would be taking the dogs for a walk. No problem...until I opened the door. Staring at me were two German Shepherd's. Beautiful breed, but also very large and protective. Each of these dogs looked to be over 80 pounds. Not an animal to trifle with by any means.
Close the door and back away. When I called the listing agent I got the runaround about why the dogs were still in the house. "Rich, no problem, these dogs are friendly. Just show the house, you're not scared, are you?" If it was just me I might have previewed the house, but I had a buyer, and three kids there.
When I take a buyer into a house, I feel like I'm assuming some responsibility. I have a responsibility to the seller to protect their belongings, and I have a responsibility to make sure my buyers are as safe as possible. Unsecured dogs are a hazard to agents and buyers. I do everything I can to mitigate risks, whether I'm working with buyers, or sellers.
I know its a pain in the butt when you have pets, and are selling your house. That being said, if you want the widest possible availability of showings...SECURE YOUR PETS. We may or may not go back to this property. If we don't, that would be a shame, but now its up to the buyer to decide. The seller lost an opportunity that could have been fixed pretty easily by doing what needs to be done.
Photo: iStockPhoto, licensed for use
Rich Iarossi is a full time licensed REALTOR®, working in Crofton, MD. My coverage areas are: Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Howard, Calvert, Queen Anne, and Baltimore City and County. I specialize in residential real estate, working with both buyers and sellers. Use the registration free search on my website at www.RichSellsHomes.com. If you’re not already working with a REALTOR®...I can help. Call me at 443-995-9595 (Cell) or 410-451-6255 (Office).©2011 - RichSellsHomes.com - All Rights ReservedAll information is deemed reliable but should be independently verified. Property information is subject to change without notice.
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