How to Prepare Your Home for a Fast Sale With Pets

Selling a home is already a process—but when you add pets into the mix, things can get a little trickier. While pet owners know their furry friends are family, potential buyers may not always feel the same way. To help your home sell quickly while keeping both your pets and prospective buyers happy, it’s important to make your home look (and smell) as pet-free as possible. Here’s how you can prepare your home for a fast sale with pets, without the added stress!

Table of Contents

1. Deep Clean and Deodorize
2. Repair Pet-Related Damage
3. Hide Pet Gear
4. Relocate Pets During Showings
5. Spruce Up the Yard
6. Final Thoughts
7. FAQ

Deep Clean and Deodorize

One of the first things potential buyers notice when walking into a home is the smell. Even if you’ve grown accustomed to the scent of your pet, others may pick up on it immediately.

Here’s how to eliminate odors and keep your home smelling fresh:

• Vacuum and mop regularly to remove pet hair and dander.
• Wash pet beds, blankets, and toys to prevent lingering smells.
• Use an enzyme-based cleaner for any areas where your pet may have had accidents.
• Consider using a professional cleaning service for carpets, upholstery, and air ducts to ensure deep-seated odors are removed.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using heavily scented air fresheners, as they can be overwhelming and may make buyers suspicious that you’re hiding odors. Stick with mild, fresh scents.

Repair Pet-Related Damage

Even the most well-behaved pets can cause a little wear and tear. Buyers are looking for a home in good condition, so it’s important to address any pet-related damage before listing your property.

• Patch up scratched walls or doors with wood filler or paint.
• Replace or clean any chewed baseboards or furniture.
• If your pet has caused stains on carpets or hardwood floors, consider replacing or refinishing those areas.
• Check window screens and blinds for any tears or damage from curious pets.

Small repairs like these can make a big difference in how buyers perceive the overall condition of your home.

Hide Pet Gear

While pet owners understand the necessity of things like litter boxes, dog beds, and food bowls, buyers won’t want to see these items during a showing. Removing pet gear helps create a clean, neutral environment that appeals to a broader range of buyers.

• Store pet toys, food bowls, and leashes out of sight.
• If you have a litter box, keep it clean and place it in an area that’s as discreet as possible.
• Remove bulky items like cat trees or dog crates during showings to make rooms feel more spacious.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a designated storage bin for all pet gear, making it easy to hide everything quickly before a showing.

Relocate Pets During Showings

No matter how friendly or well-trained your pet is, it’s best to relocate them during showings. Some buyers may feel uncomfortable around animals, and pets can also be a distraction from the home itself.

Options for relocating pets include:

• Taking them to a friend or family member’s house during showings.
• Dropping them off at a pet daycare or using a pet-sitting service.
• Taking them for a walk or car ride while buyers are touring your home.

If relocating your pets isn’t possible, be sure they are confined to a specific room or area, and notify your real estate agent so they can inform buyers ahead of time.

Spruce Up the Yard

If you have a dog or outdoor pet, your yard may show signs of wear from digging, trampling, or pet waste. A well-maintained yard adds to your home’s curb appeal, so take the time to spruce it up before listing.

Here’s what you can do:

• Fill in holes or bare patches in the lawn caused by pets.
• Clean up any pet waste before every showing.
• Repair damaged fencing or gates if your pet has caused wear over time.
• Add a few potted plants or flowers to make your yard look fresh and inviting.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home with pets can present unique challenges, but with the right preparation, you can minimize distractions and ensure your home appeals to a wide range of buyers. By focusing on cleanliness, repairs, and hiding pet-related items, you’ll be well on your way to a fast sale. Remember, first impressions matter—so creating a pet-free experience during showings is key to getting those offers rolling in.

Ready to sell? The Living in Idaho at LPT Realty team can help guide you through the process and offer personalized advice on how to prepare your home for a successful sale. Don’t forget to check out our instant home valuation tool to see what your home is worth in today’s market!

FAQ

Can I sell my home with pets still living in it?
Yes, but it’s important to minimize the presence of pets during showings by relocating them and hiding pet-related items. Keeping your home clean and odor-free is also crucial.

What’s the best way to handle pet odors before listing my home?
Use enzyme-based cleaners for accidents, vacuum regularly, and consider professional cleaning services for carpets and upholstery. Keeping pet gear clean also helps reduce odors.

Should I disclose that I have pets when selling my home?
While you don’t need to broadcast it in your listing, it’s generally a good idea to inform your real estate agent, who can help guide you on the best approach for showings and inspections.

Are buyers less likely to purchase a home with signs of pets?
Some buyers may be turned off by signs of pets, but addressing potential concerns like odors, damage, and cleanliness can help your home appeal to a wider audience.