Pet Considerations When Selling Your Home

Selling your home impacts all members of the family. This is especially true of the furry members of the family. We all love our pets, and oftentimes consider them when making any major life decision. However, not everyone shares the same feelings towards your pets as you do. When it comes to pets and selling your home, pets are often a distraction, or worse, detraction for potential homebuyers. Read on for the most important pet considerations. 

Check Your Insurance

When you begin showing your home, the best course of action is to plan for alternative accommodations for your pet. If this is not feasible, you will want to ensure that your insurance will cover any harm done by your pet to a visitor in your home. Many insurance agencies will not cover what they consider to be aggressive breeds of dogs.

Don't Forget the Yard

Often overlooked when selling your home is the condition of the yard. More specifically, you will want to make sure that your yard is clear of any animal waste or brown spots in the grass. Homebuyers often will walk the property and you definitely don’t want anyone stepping in any surprises. Furthermore, if you pup tends to dig, make sure the any wholes are patched up. A homebuyer twisting their ankle is not a good look.

Remove Odors

One of the most problematic parts of any pet is the odor they leave behind. Even if you don’t notice it, your pet most likely has an odor. Brush your pet often, and outdoors, and make sure you house is free and clear of all dog hair. Furthermore, consider running the fan on your HVAC in order to keep the air circulating. Despite what you may think, lighting candles and other fragrances, is not the best option. Not only is this distracting, but it may lead buyers to believe you are trying to hide something. Make sure all pet bedding is washed and clean as well.

Hide the Clutter

Just like your kids, your pets have a lot of gear that they use. As cumbersome as it may be, stowing away bowls, toys, leashes, and all other dog items is the best policy when it comes to selling your home. Your agent will be a second set of eyes to make sure you have all the clutter removed. Following some of these simple tasks and pet considerations will help erase your dog or cat from the eyes of a homebuyer. As cute as your pet may be, you are trying to showcase your home. Do not detract from your home and you face the best possible chance of selling your home for top dollar.If you are interested in buying or selling property in the Costa Mesa area, Contact Torelli Realty.