SHOWING YOUR HOME WITH PETS: PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR BUYERS

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter are lasting impressions.  As a pet owner, showcasing your home during showings can present unique challenges. Potential buyers may have allergies, fears, or concerns about pets, and it's essential to create a welcoming environment for everyone. By taking a few proactive steps, you can ensure a successful showing while keeping your beloved furry friends safe and comfortable. The following are actions that buyers and sellers who are pet owners can take, to prepare their homes for showings.
 

1. FIND A TEMPORARY HOME FOR YOUR PETS:

The ideal scenario for showings is to remove your pets from the premises. Consider asking a friend or family member if they can take care for your pets during the showing. Alternatively, you can explore local pet daycare or boarding options. By temporarily relocating your pets, you eliminate the risk of them causing distractions or making potential buyers uncomfortable.  As well, some potential buyers may be allergic to pet hair.
 

2. REMOVE VISIBLE SIGNS OF PETS:

While you may love your pets' presence in your home, it's important to create a neutral environment during showings. We recommend removing all visible signs of pets, such as feeding bowls, litter boxes, toys, and pet beds. Store them out of sight to help buyers envision the space as their own without being reminded of the previous occupants.  Certain cultures frown on having pets inside the house due to religious reasons so be removing the tell-tale signs of any pets, opens the buyers up to a wider audience of potential homebuyers.

 
3. DEEP CLEAN YOUR HOME:

Pet odors and allergens can linger in a home, even if you are used to them. Prior to showings, thoroughly clean your home to eliminate any lingering pet smells. Vacuum carpets and furniture, wash bedding, and consider using air fresheners or deodorizers to create a fresh, inviting atmosphere.  You may wish to hire a professional house cleaner to rid the house of any evidence of pet smell.
 

4. REPAIR PET-RELATED DAMAGE:

Pets can unintentionally cause damage to a home over time. Take a close look at your property and repair any pet-related damage, such as scratched floors, chewed baseboards, or torn window screens. A well-maintained home will leave a positive impression on potential buyers. Although you may not think of this point as being too important, buyers often make a judgement by looking at the smaller details of a house which gives them hints as to how well a home has been cared for.

 
5. MINIMIZE ALLERGENS:

Some buyers may have allergies or sensitivities to pets. To create a comfortable environment, consider taking additional steps to minimize allergens. Clean or replace air filters, use hypoallergenic bedding and upholstery covers, and keep your home well-ventilated to reduce dander and other allergens.
 

6. HIDE EVIDENCE OF PETS' PRESENCE:

During showings, it's crucial to hide any evidence of your pets, even if they are not present. Put away pet-related items like leashes, grooming supplies, toys and crates. Additionally, check for pet hair on furniture, curtains, and other surfaces. A thorough inspection will help ensure your home appears pet-free to potential buyers.
 

7. SECURE YOUR PETS' SAFETY:

If it's not possible to remove your pets from the home during showings, ensure their safety and prevent any incidents. Confine them to a designated area or crate that is inaccessible to visitors. Inform your real estate agent about the presence of pets and provide clear instructions on how to handle them during showings.

 
8. COMMUNICATE ABOUT PETS IN ADVANCE:

When scheduling showings, let your real estate agent know if you have pets. This way, they can inform potential buyers ahead of time and assess their comfort level with pets. Some buyers may have specific concerns or require special arrangements, and early communication can help address these issues.
 
Preparing your home for showings as a pet owner requires careful planning and consideration. By finding temporary accommodations for your pets, removing visible signs of pets, deep cleaning, repairing any pet-related damage, minimizing allergens, and securing your pets' safety, you can create an inviting space for potential buyers. Remember to communicate openly with your real estate agent about your pets to ensure a smooth and successful showing process. With these actions in place, you'll increase your chances of selling your home quickly and efficiently while keeping your pets' well-being a top priority.

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