Selling Your Home When You Own Pets: A Guide

Pets can be wonderful to have, but they make selling a home difficult. Pet odors, pet damage and even pets themselves can deter buyers. If you're a homeowner with pets, these tips can help you sell your property quickly, and for the right price.

Get Rid of Pet Odors

Pet odors can be a deterrent for a lot of home buyers. Buyers often find pet odors unpleasant, while those who have allergies may need the odors to be eliminated before they can move in. Homeowners who get rid of pet odors before buyers come for viewings can help their home sell more quickly. Deodorizing carpet is one way to get rid of pet odors. This is done by sprinkling baking soda on the floor and leaving it there overnight. It can be vacuumed the next day.

Opening windows to allow fresh air into the home also helps, as does changing the air filter on the HVAC system. If the pet is allowed to spend time on the furniture, the homeowner may also need to shampoo upholstered chairs and other furniture in order to get rid of smells. Once odors have been eliminated, many homeowners limit their pet to one section of the house to keep the rest of the house smelling fresh.

Clean Up Before Every Showing

Cleaning up before every showing can help ensure that the house will look its best before buyers come. Pet owners must be extra diligent to ensure that their home is properly staged. This may require the homeowner to rake the carpeting, vacuum and dust thoroughly, especially in any areas where their pet spends time.

Take Your Pet Elsewhere When Buyers are Around

Pets can make Sidney BC new home buyers feel uncomfortable. The best way to ensure that buyers will feel free to explore the property thoroughly is to remove any pets from the premises before buyers arrive. Most homeowners will take their pet to a friend or just for a walk around the neighborhood while their home is being showed to buyers.

Work With a Real Estate Professional

If you're a homeowner who would like to sell your property, work with a real estate professional. Your real estate professional can help you decide how to market your home. Get started selling your house by calling a real estate professional today.