Selling your home is not a simple feat, and when you mix in your furry friends, it can add an extra layer of stress. But, the hardest part will be while your home is active on the market with showings. Once you go under contract, it will be a little easier that you don’t have to leave your home as often.
Buyers are extremely visual, and like to visualize themselves in a space. Although a pet may be a member of your family, to the next potential buyer they may not feel the same way. So, let’s get into some tips that you can do to keep your home in the best condition and get it sold quick and smoothly.
First, deep clean. Everything.
From couches, blankets, carpets, rugs, make sure that you really clean the pet hair and dander. This should help remove most of the pet odor, as well as opening some windows and doors to get some fresh air inside. You don’t want someone to walk into your home and be overwhelmed by the potential pet smell.
Second, I personally think it is best to take your pet with you, if you can. Obviously, some pets are not transport friendly like cats, or others that may live in a small table top cage. I would say if you have an aggressive, anxious, or just an extra happy pet, it will be best to remove them while Buyers are touring your home. The last thing you want is for the Buyer to be so distracted by your cute pet, that they lose interest in your home.
Third, you are going to want to remove any signs of pets that you have. Put away their water and food bowls, toys, litter boxes. Make your space as neutral as possible, so it is easier for the Buyer to imagine themselves in the space. You are also going to want to make any repairs that were caused from a pet scratching, chewing, or stains they may have left.
Lastly, clean up the yard. The exterior of the home is just as important, if not more, then the interior of the home. Buyers will have the first impression of your home when they pull into the driveway. They will most likely walk around the exterior, and no one wants to step in something mushy. So just make sure to keep your yard mowed and clean as best you can!
Ultimately, you are still living in your home, working, and moving. We are human, so not everything can be perfect all the time. At the end of the day, do the best that you can to keep your home clean and show ready. And remember, it is your home so a buyer would be happier that you denied their showing because you want the house to be clean and ready, rather than they see it, and it is not in the best condition it could be in.
Being a pet parent myself, I know how important they are. I also know how much work they require, and the clean up, and how it can get away from you sometimes. But that is ok, just breathe and take it one step at a time and make sure to communicate with your Realtor!
–Amber Fleck loves to welcome people to the area and share all of her favorite hidden gems. She enjoys the little things in life, and is thankful every day that she gets to do what she loves, and thoughtfully and intentionally help others navigate a major life decision. Contact her and learn more on her agent bio page here.