Although selling your home is a big decision for you, it is even a bigger decision when you have pets. And although most of us have a soft spot, not everyone is “Pet Friendly”. You need to know that not all buyers will welcome your companions or your home if you have them. There are a few additional things you will need to consider before and during the sale of your home.
The number one complaint from buyers, when doing a walkthrough, is the odor from pets. We recommend that you have your carpets professionally cleaned and deep clean your home before putting it on the market. Professionals will find and notice areas that owners sometimes overlook. This will also give you a head start and cut back on the amount of day to day cleaning that you will need to keep up on. And don’t forget those natural odors; unwelcomed all the same, they will need repetitive attention.
Pet toys, bones, and food and water dishes should be picked up before every showing. No one wants to accidently step on a chew toy or kick the water dish. And although it may be known that pets live in your home, out of site is out of mind.
The second reason that buyers are deterred from your home is because they are uncomfortable. Some pets are intimidating or a nuisance and create an uneasy feeling during a showing. A large dog guarding the property or a cat constantly leading the way is a distraction from the actual task at hand, showcasing your home. And not to mention, strangers in their domain is not comfortable for them either.
So please remember not only to be courteous to realtors and guests, but be courteous to your pets as well. It is as equally important that your pets remain healthy! Keeping them as close as you can to their normal schedule will ease any nervousness they may have and make the selling process smoother for everyone!
