How To Sell A House With Pets: 5 Tips To Maximize Value and Appeal

Reviewed by: Brandon Brown

Selling a house is an exciting yet challenging endeavor, especially when you have cherished pets as part of your family. As a pet owner, you understand the unique bond you share with your furry friends. 

That’s why we at FlipSplit are here to guide you through the process of selling your house while ensuring the well-being of your beloved pets. In this article, we’ll share a variety of helpful tips to make the experience smoother for both you and your animal companions.

Preparing Your House For The Selling Process

To reiterate, selling a house with pets doesn’t mean you have to compromise on its value or appeal. By taking some proactive measures, you can maximize the value of your property and attract potential buyers, even if you have furry friends at home. Here are some essential tips to help you sell your house successfully while ensuring your pets’ well-being:

1. Deep Clean and Eliminate Odors: Thoroughly clean your house, paying extra attention to areas where your pets spend time. Remove any pet hair, stains, or odors that could turn off potential buyers. Consider professional cleaning services to ensure a fresh and inviting environment.

2. Repair and Refresh: Inspect your property for any damage caused by your pets, such as scratched floors or torn screens. While there is certain criteria around what not to fix when selling a house, repairing or replacing damaged items to present your house in the best possible condition is beneficial. Consider repainting walls or touching up areas where your pets may have caused visible wear and tear. 

3. Stage Strategically: When staging a home to sell, highlight the positive aspects of your home while minimizing the presence of pet-related items. Store pet toys, beds, and litter boxes discreetly during showings or open houses. Use neutral and appealing decor that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Showcase well-maintained outdoor spaces, emphasizing their pet-friendly features.

4. Consider Temporary Relocation: If possible, explore temporary housing options for your pets during critical stages of the selling process, such as showings or open houses. This can reduce stress for your pets and make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves in your home. Plan ahead and arrange a comfortable environment for your pets during their temporary stay.

5. Highlight Pet-Friendly Features: Emphasize any pet-friendly features your house offers, such as fenced yards, pet doors, or nearby walking trails. Showcase these features through appealing photos and descriptive language in your listings and marketing materials. Mention any pet-related amenities in the neighborhood, such as dog parks or pet-friendly establishments.

Preparing Your Pets For The Selling Process 

Moving can be stressful for pets, but with the right preparation and care, you can help them adjust smoothly to the changes. 

1. Assess Your Pet’s Behavior and Needs: Every pet has its own personality and comfort level. Take the time to evaluate how your pet behaves in different situations and consider their needs prior to listing your property. Some pets may become anxious or territorial, while others may be more relaxed. Understanding their behavior will help you plan accordingly.

2. Create Pet-Friendly Spaces: Staging your home is an essential part of attracting potential buyers, and this includes accommodating your pets. Designate specific areas for your pets, such as a cozy corner or a playroom, that are clean and well-maintained. Remove any chewed or scratched furniture and consider adding tasteful pet-themed decor to showcase your pet-friendly home.

3. Establish a Routine and Provide a Sense of Stability for Your Pets: Pets thrive on routine, so maintaining a consistent schedule during the selling process is crucial. Stick to regular feeding times, exercise routines, and play sessions to provide a sense of stability for your furry companions. This will help reduce their stress and create a more relaxed environment for everyone involved.

 

Planning for Showings and Open Houses

When it comes to selling your house with pets, planning for showings and open houses is a crucial aspect of the process. As an iBuyer like FlipSplit, we understand the unique challenges and considerations that come with selling a house while having pets. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate this stage smoothly. 

1. Temporary Relocation Options for Pets During Showings: As mentioned previously, to create a comfortable environment for potential buyers and reduce any disruptions, it’s often best to temporarily relocate your pets during showings and open houses. This allows buyers to explore your home freely without worrying about interacting with your furry friends. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member if they can look after your pets during these times or explore local pet boarding facilities.

2. Prepare Your Pets for Showings and Open Houses: Before each showing or open house, take steps to prepare your pets for the presence of potential buyers. Providing them with exercise and mental stimulation beforehand can help alleviate any excess energy or anxiety. Consider creating a designated area in your home with their favorite toys, bedding, and water to keep them comfortable during the showing.

3. Schedule Showings Strategically to Minimize Disruptions: When scheduling showings and open houses, it’s essential to consider the well-being of your pets. Coordinate with your real estate agent to schedule appointments at times that are least likely to cause stress or disruptions for your furry companions. Or even better, embrace the convenience of partnering with an iBuyer to eliminate the need for open houses or frequent showings, thus reducing the potential stress on both you and your pets. By working closely with an iBuyer like FlipSplit, we can help you experience a hassle-free sale that minimizes disruptions to your daily routines and allows you to transition smoothly to your new home.

4. Informing Agents and Potential Buyers about the Presence of Pets: It’s essential to disclose the presence of pets to your realtor or iBuyer, along with potential buyers. This allows them to take any necessary precautions or adjust their expectations accordingly. Make sure to communicate any specific instructions or concerns you have regarding your pets during showings, open houses, or the sale of your house overall.

 

FlipSplit: Your Trusted Partner in Selling Your Home with Pets

At FlipSplit, we understand that selling a house with pets can present unique challenges. That’s why we’re here to offer a solution that caters to both your needs and the well-being of your beloved companions. 

With our expertise in real estate and our commitment to serving homeowners with properties in all different conditions, we provide a seamless and profitable way to sell your home while considering the presence of pets. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, offering personalized advice and strategies to ensure a successful sale without compromising the comfort and happiness of your pets. 

Trust FlipSplit to be your partner in achieving your home-selling goals while prioritizing the needs of your furry family members. Together, we’ll make selling your house a rewarding experience for everyone involved.