When it comes to the process of selling a home, did you ever consider how much power your pet could have over the selling decision? Whether potential buyers are pet-owners or not, they do not always want to see traces of your pet in their future home. Here are a few tips on how to sell your home while owning pets.
Deep Clean and Repair Any Damage by Pets Before Listing
We love our pets, but no matter how well-behaved they are, they may have made a mess here or there. Pet-owners may overlook these blemishes from day to day, but they will stick out like a sore thumb to potential buyers. These messes may include a sign of digging in the yard, scratched or chewed furniture or walls, stains from pet waste, etc. You can vacuum and hire cleaning services to deep clean your furniture and/or carpet if you do not have the resources to do it yourself.
Remove All Signs of Your Pet
This step sounds somber, but it’s a pertinent step when it comes to selling your home. The potential buyers would like to envision themselves in your home. If the buyers themselves are not pet owners, they may be put off by the dog toys or litter box in the home.
Get Your Pet Out of the Home When Possible
Along with the pet accessories, your pet should probably go as well. Even if your pet is well-behaved, they may feel anxious or stressed with so many unfamiliar smells and faces coming in and out of your house. It is for the best that you take your pet out of the home during an open house. You can get a friend or family member to take care of your pet for a while, take your pet to the kennel or groomers for the day, or even take a drive with your pet. Whatever you are comfortable doing while also getting your pet out of the house.
Don’t attempt to hide your pet anywhere in the home! The potential buyers will want to see all spaces of the house and would not like to be surprised by opening a closet and seeing a cat leap out.
If an open house is sprung on you last minute and you cannot find accommodations for your pet, keep your pet in a crate with a note to leave the pet alone.
Above all, make sure your pet is not too stressed or anxious during the time of selling. If you are concerned about your pet’s health because of these changes, contact your veterinarian about potential ways you can help your pet cope.
If you have any more questions about selling your home while owning pets or need help buying/selling a home, let’s schedule a meeting! Contact me and we can work something out!
Diane Waschenko
(914) 447-5847
diane.waschenko@cbrealty.com