If you're a pet owner looking to sell your home, it's important to take a few extra steps to make sure your furry friends don't negatively impact the selling process. Here are some tips to help you sell your home when you have pets:
Deep Clean Your Home
Before you list your home for sale, it's important to give your home a thorough cleaning. This is especially important when you have pets, as potential buyers may be put off by pet odors or messes. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to deep clean your carpets, furniture, and other surfaces to ensure your home is in tip-top shape for showings.
Minimize Pet Clutter
While it's important to keep your pet's toys, food bowls, and other items accessible for your furry friends, it's also important to minimize pet clutter during showings. Put away any toys or accessories that may be in the way or make your home look cluttered. Consider storing these items in a designated area during showings so that they can be easily accessed once the showing is over.
Address Any Damage or Odors
If your pets have caused any damage to your home or left behind odors, it's important to address these issues before putting your home on the market. Repair any damage that your pets may have caused, such as scratches on hardwood floors or torn carpet. Additionally, use pet-specific odor eliminators to remove any unpleasant odors from your home.
Consider Boarding Your Pet During Showings
While it may be inconvenient, boarding your pets during showings can be a good option to avoid any potential issues. Not only will it eliminate any concerns about pet odors or messes, but it will also make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space without the presence of pets. If boarding isn't an option, consider having a friend or family member take your pets for a walk or out of the home during showings.
Be Honest About Your Pets
While you may be tempted to hide the fact that you have pets from potential buyers, it's important to be upfront and honest about your furry friends. Some buyers may be allergic or have other concerns about living in a home with pets, so it's important to disclose this information upfront. Being honest about your pets can also help potential buyers feel more comfortable in your home and may even help your home sell faster.
Conclusion
Selling your home when you have pets can present some unique challenges, but with a little extra effort and preparation, you can help ensure a successful sale. By deep cleaning your home, minimizing pet clutter, addressing any damage or odors, considering boarding your pets during showings, and being honest about your pets, you can help make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase your chances of a successful sale.
