Question:
“We want to sell and have a couple of big dogs. Any tips you can offer on how to deal with that?”
Answer:
I LOVE dogs, even though I’ve been cornered and almost attacked by dogs several times. And I understand that they’re part of your family. At the same time, they can present some challenges to selling a home.
The main challenges are odor, safety, distraction, and being sure they don’t run off. #1 below deals with odor, and #2 addresses the rest.
1. Eliminate Pet Odor
Though owners may get used to them, pet odors deter buyers. Smell has a powerful effect on our emotions and perception. Pet odors stick in buyers’ minds negatively and cause them to deduct the cost of carpet replacement from their offer and MORE. Many buyers walk in the home, smell a strong odor, and turn around and walk back out.
Eliminate pet odors by:
- Replacing carpet
- Having them professionally steam cleaned and deodorized
- Clean/replace/remove upholstered furniture, area rugs and other surfaces that can hold odors
- Open windows before showings to air out the home
- Don’t overuse scented air fresheners
- Try air neutralizers and odor absorbing products
- Add fresh flowers to help with fragrance and home staging
- Consider an air purifier in the pet’s main living area to filter air
2. Keep Dogs Under Control
Some buyers are afraid of dogs. Many who aren’t can still be distracted or annoyed by dogs who bark incessantly at visitors.
Some key things to do:
- Safety is #1. If there’s the slightest chance your dog could be aggressive, don’t leave them there when you’re not home UNLESS they’re secured in a dog run that’s clearly marked “Do Not Enter Due To Dog!”
- A second option is to keep the dog in the yard or a bedroom, but it’s best to allow full access to the house and grounds.
- If your dog can tolerate being caged for short periods, that’s another possibility.
- If safety is #1, being sure your dog doesn’t run away is #2. If your dog likes to run or slip out your front door, again consider having them 100% secured or not home at all when you’re not there.
Hope that helps!
