How To Sell Your Home With Pets

Who doesn’t love a dog or cat? Most everyone does, but did you know that pets can kill the sale of your home? It may seem unfathomable that this could happen, but it can and it has to many a seller. So how can you ensure that you, the seller and animal lover that you are does not have this happen to you?

First and foremost, make sure that there are no obnoxious pet odors looming in the air. Don’t try to mask unpleasant odors either through air fresheners, candles and the like as those only cover up horrid pet smells and not get rid of the bacteria in which causes the odors. Clean litter boxes with bleach spray as well as the flooring in the room in which the litter box is. After cleaning the room, it would be wise to remove anything that indicates that a cat uses that room. Additionally, remove any puppy training pads as well and clean any pet stains on carpets or furniture with enzyme cleaners specifically made for cleaning up after pets. Still can’t get the smell or stains out then it’s best to call the service of a professional who has stronger solvents and cleaners than what is available in stores.

Another point to think about is that not everyone does like pets and some people are allergic as well. Not all have grown up with a puppy to snuggle with or a kitten to play with which explains why many just don’t care for pets. Some people can also be nervous around animals particularly if they had a bad experience at some point in their lives, so it is a good idea to be sensitive to issues such as this. Then there are others who truly have a bad allergic reaction to primarily cats, but some dogs as well. Be sure to vacuum thoroughly in this case right before showings as well as removing the cat or dog from the home temporarily by bringing them to a boarding facility, vet, friend’s house or for a ride in the car.

If you do not have a place to put your pets while your home is being shown, then place them in a separate enclosed area within the home with the door shut. Place a note on the door not to go into the room as there are animals in there. More than likely, they will respect this very much and will not enter the room. Not only does this protect your pets from running outside and running away, but it also protects you as a seller as you never truly know the temperament of an animal especially a dog if you are not at home. Dogs can be very protective and the last thing any seller needs is a lawsuit slapped on them because their dog nipped at a buyer or buyer’s agent.

DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE, DISCLOSE. Make sure that when you list your home for sale to disclose to your real estate agent that you have pets and that this is included in the showing instructions as well as MLS. If you do not do this, how awful would it be if you came home after a showing only to realize that your dog was let out or that your cat is missing? Not only would that be heartbreaking, but it also could’ve been prevented.

Tim Ryan specializes in helping buyers find great deals on Naples Real Estate. You can visit Tim's website where you can find thousands of Naples homes for sale.