7 Tips for Handling Pets During Home Showings
Selling a home with pets can be a challenging balancing act that requires careful planning and consideration. In this blog post, discover how homeowners managed their pets during showings while their homes were staged and on the market. Learn from an insightful array of seven answers, starting with the importance of temporarily relocating pets during showings and concluding with tips on securely containing pets off-site. These practical insights aim to help pet owners navigate the complexities of home showings with ease.
- Temporarily Relocate Pets During Showings
- Use Pet Services for Viewings
- Ensure a Pet-Free Environment
- Neutralize Pet Odors
- Stage Pet Areas Thoughtfully
- Offer Detailed Pet Information
- Securely Contain Pets Off-Site
Temporarily Relocate Pets During Showings
Selling a home with pets can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can keep things smooth for both you and potential buyers. When our home was on the market, we chose to temporarily relocate our pets during showings. Whether they stayed with friends or went to daycare, this step ensured they were safe, reduced their stress, and created a more appealing, distraction-free environment for viewers.
For other pet owners facing this situation, one of the best moves you can make is to deep-clean frequently. Pet hair and odors can be noticeable, so vacuum regularly, use pet-safe deodorizers, and consider professional cleaning, if possible. These small steps go a long way in keeping your home fresh and inviting.
It's also smart to stage your home with a minimalist approach when it comes to pet items. Hide food bowls, litter boxes, and toys before each showing. By keeping pet items out of sight, buyers can better focus on your home's features rather than the presence of pets.
Finally, have a plan for each showing. Ideally, pets should be removed from the home, but if that's not possible, create a comfortable, confined space for them in a spare room or garage. This helps keep them calm and ensures they're not a distraction during the tour.
Use Pet Services for Viewings
Managing pets while our home was on the market required some organization, but with a bit of planning, it went smoothly—and it even turned out to be a positive! My dog is quite energetic, so for viewings, I made sure she wasn't home to keep things calm. Sometimes I'd take her out for a walk myself, but when things got busy, I used a local pet sitter through MadPaws. It was a real lifesaver, especially for last-minute viewings, as I knew she was getting her exercise and enjoying herself while I focused on preparing the house.
Our cat was a little more sensitive to the changes, so we created a cozy "safe zone" in the laundry room. We set her up with her favorite bed, food, and water, and kept the door closed during viewings, with a small note for agents asking them not to enter. It kept her relaxed and made the process far easier for everyone.
One of the best surprises was how our dog actually helped sell the house! The garden was one of the property's best features—spacious, green, and ideal for pets. When the buyers found out we had a dog, they said it reassured them that their own dog would love the space too. That personal connection made them even more excited about the property, and I'm pretty sure it helped close the deal.
For other pet owners in the same situation, here are a few things that worked for us:
Use pet services like MadPaws or doggy day care—having someone take your pet out means you won't need to rush or stress about viewings.
Create a safe, quiet space for pets—whether it's a crate, a spare room, or staying with a friend, having a designated spot helps keep pets comfortable.
Communicate with your estate agent—it's helpful to get a bit of notice before viewings so you can prepare your pets and the home properly.
Minimize pet clutter—store toys, beds, and bowls out of sight so prospective buyers can focus on the property, not the pets.
Consider air fresheners or an air purifier—even the best-behaved pets can leave behind smells that buyers may notice more than we do.
Highlight pet-friendly features—if you have a garden, pet-friendly flooring, or access to nearby parks, make sure to mention it! Buyers with pets will love knowing their furry friends will enjoy the home just as much as they will.
Balancing pets and viewings can seem daunting at first, but with some planning and the right help, it's entirely manageable—and in our case, it even became a selling point!
Ensure a Pet-Free Environment
To create a welcoming atmosphere during home showings, it's essential to minimize the presence of pets. Pets can be a distraction and sometimes buyers might have allergies or fears. Arranging for pets to stay with friends, at a pet daycare, or even a comfortably contained space outside the home can help.
A pet-free environment allows potential buyers to focus entirely on the home's features. Consider taking this step to make the viewing experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. Take action to ensure your home is pet-free for the best showing experience.
Neutralize Pet Odors
Neutralizing pet odors can greatly contribute to a positive impression during home showings. Lingering smells from pets can deter potential buyers and leave a negative impact. Clean carpets, furniture, and any areas where pets spend time, possibly using professional cleaning services for thorough results.
Using air fresheners or neutralizers can also help to maintain a fresh scent. This attention to cleanliness can engage buyers more positively during their visit. Act now to freshen your home and enhance its appeal.
Stage Pet Areas Thoughtfully
Displaying pet areas thoughtfully can make a big difference in how a home is perceived during showings. Discreetly arranged pet beds, toys, and food bowls can help maintain the overall aesthetic appeal. Ensure that these areas are neat and don't detract from the home's main features.
Presenting a tidy space suggests to buyers that the entire home is well-cared for. Enhancing visual appeal in such ways can positively impact buyer interest. Take steps to stage your pet areas considerately for your next showing.
Offer Detailed Pet Information
Offering detailed pet information upfront can enhance transparency and trust during home showings. Buyers may appreciate knowing about any pets that live or have lived in the home. This information can also preempt any concerns about allergies or pet-induced wear and tear.
By proactively sharing details, you can address potential questions and reassure buyers. Honest communication can significantly smooth the showing process. Be proactive and offer clear pet information to potential buyers.
Securely Contain Pets Off-Site
In some cases, it might be necessary to securely contain pets off-site during home showings. Temporary relocation to a friend's house or a pet boarding facility can ensure that pets are safe and buyers can tour the home without distractions. This measure can also prevent pets from accidentally escaping or becoming stressed from the increased activity.
A peaceful showing environment benefits the potential buyers and the pets. Consider arranging off-site care for a smoother showing process. Act now to plan for your pets' temporary relocation during home viewings.