Selling a Home as a Pet-Owner

Your pet dog or cat may be like a second member of your family, but some potential homebuyers see a house that was once home to an animal as a negative, either lessening its value in their minds or potentially influencing their decision of whether to buy. The process of selling a home can also be stressful on your pet. If you are a pet-owner who is preparing to sell your home, make sure that you follow these tips to make the process go smoothly for everyone.

Be considerate of your pet’s feelings. Selling a home can be as stressful for your pet as it is for you and your family. The constant traffic that comes with home inspections and open houses can be upsetting to an animal. Be sure to talk to your pet’s veterinarian about your plan for selling your home and how it might affect your pet. Listen to their suggestions, which could be anything from temporarily relocating your pet to a trusted friend or family member, or at the very least, removing them during showings.

Understand pet risks and liabilities. Choosing to keep your pet in your home during a showing leaves you liable for anything that happens when a stranger is on your property. While your pet may normally be friendly, the stress of new people or a curious young child can lead to bites, scratches, or other injuries for which you are legally responsible. Protect both your pet and potential buyers and their families by removing them from the property or containing them in a pet-friendly crate.

Remove odor, repair damages, and clean messes. You never want a potential buyer to be driven from your home because of a strong, unpleasant odor. Certain dog breeds, such as beagles or spaniels, have stronger smells. While you may be used to it, it can be very unpleasant for those who aren’t. Be sure to clean carpets, flooring, and litterboxes — and while you’re cleaning, note any pet-created damages to your furniture, floors, walls, and yard, and then get them fixed.

Remember, when preparing a home for the real estate market, the goal is to make it as appealing to non-pet-owners as it is to pet-owners. This means trying to make your home look as though there are no animals living in it. By removing toys, beds, and other “pet clutter,” you will help potential buyers see themselves comfortably living in your home.

If you are looking to sell your home, talk to Dan O’Reilly at O’Reilly Team to discover what else you must do to prepare as a homeowner.