Selling a home when you have pets doesn’t have to feel like wrangling a herd of cats! Check out these simple tips for how to prepare your home for sale with pets:
Deep Clean: This is important whether you have pets or not. Before you put your house on the market, give it a thorough deep cleaning to remove any pet odors or stains. Make sure to clean carpets, floors, walls, and any other surfaces that may have trapped pet odors.
Declutter: Store any pet-related items, such as toys, beds, and food bowls out of sight or remove, if possible. This will help potential buyers envision themselves in the space without being distracted.
Repair any damage: Fix any damage your pets may have caused to the home, such as scratches on doors or walls, before showings begin. This will help make your home more appealing to buyers.
Spruce up the yard: Give your outdoor space some extra attention and clean up any messes () while boosting your curb appeal.
Plan for showings: The sights and sounds of pets can be distracting to potential buyers (Hello! Can I pet your dog?). Not to mention strangers in the house can be stressful on the animals so it’s important to make a plan for your pets during showings. You could take them for a walk or have them stay with a friend or family member, but ultimately having a set showing schedule is key to keeping things as normal as possible for your pets.
The right realtor: Oh hey! Having a realtor who understands how important your pets are is vital for navigating what can be a stressful situation. (Extra bonus, I always carry treats! )