Selling a home can be a stressful process, especially when you have pets. While our furry friends are beloved members of the family, they can pose challenges when it comes to staging and showing your home to potential buyers. However, with some careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your home sells quickly and smoothly, even with pets in the picture.
In this article, let’s discuss some essential tips for preparing your home for sale with pets.
Clean and deodorize
One of the first steps in preparing your home for sale with pets is to thoroughly clean and deodorize the space. Pets can leave behind odors and stains that may be off-putting to potential buyers. Invest in professional carpet cleaning services to remove any pet stains and odors from carpets and rugs. Additionally, be sure to clean litter boxes, cages, and pet bedding regularly to keep your home smelling fresh.
Repair any damage
Pets can sometimes cause damage to your home, such as scratches on floors or chewed furniture. Before putting your home on the market, take the time to repair any damage caused by your pets. This may include filling in scratch marks on hardwood floors, replacing chewed baseboards, or repairing torn window screens. A well-maintained home will leave a better impression on potential buyers.
Stage your home wisely
When staging your home for sale, consider the presence of your pets and how they may impact the presentation. Remove any pet toys, food bowls, and litter boxes from common areas before showing your home to potential buyers. While your pets are adorable, their belongings can be distracting and make it difficult for buyers to envision themselves living in the space.
Minimize pet presence during showings
While it may be tempting to leave your pets at home during showings, it’s best to minimize their presence as much as possible. Arrange for your pets to stay with a friend, family member, or pet sitter during showings and open houses. This will not only make it easier for potential buyers to view your home without distractions but also alleviate any concerns about allergies or pet-related phobias.
Highlight pet-friendly features
If your home has pet-friendly features, such as a fenced backyard or built-in pet doors, be sure to highlight them to potential buyers. Many pet owners actively seek out homes that are conducive to pet ownership, so showcasing these features can make your home more appealing. Consider adding a note in your listing description or creating a separate flyer highlighting the benefits of your home for pet owners.
Be transparent about pet history
Finally, be transparent with potential buyers about the presence of pets in your home. Disclose any information about pet-related issues, such as allergies or past damage caused by pets. Honesty is key to building trust with buyers and ensuring a smooth real estate transaction.
Selling a home with pets doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these tips for preparing your home for sale with pets, you can attract potential buyers and achieve a smooth real estate transaction.
Keep in mind to clean and deodorize your home, fix any pet-related damage, stage your home skillfully, minimize pet presence during showings, highlight pet-friendly features, and be open with buyers about your pet history. With some careful planning and preparation, you can sell your home quickly and efficiently, even with pets in the picture.
If you have any questions and want to discover more about how to prepare your home for sale with pets, reach out to Jennifer Yoingco, REALTOR®, and her team, The Houston Suburb Group. They’ll help you get ready to experience living in Houston, Texas!
