Top Home Selling Tips for Pet Owners from @WH_TEAM Estate Brokers

“We’re here today with Hannah Kim, Real Estate Broker with the Wilson Hannah Team, as she answers home selling questions often asked by pet owners.”

Golden Retriever hanging out at his home

TW: How should Homeowners handle having a pet when preparing their home for sale?

Hannah: Whenever we work with a Home Seller with pets, we always recommend that they remove all pet items and pet odours for the duration of the Listing. This means putting away pet beds, toys, food and photos. It is also important to repair any damage to the home that would show indications of pets.

TW: What areas of the home should Homeowners pay most attention to when preparing their home for sale?

Hannah: Floors and Rear yard: Pet odours and stains are often hidden in carpets and most evident to non pet owners. We always recommend professional carpet cleaning as this is the most effective method to remove stains. Also pay attention to the rear yard and remember to pick up any pet waste and re-patch grass that may have been dug up.

TW: How should Homeowners handle having a pet while the house is listed for sale?

Hannah: We understand that temporarily relocating pets while the home is listed for sale might be a challenge. Thus, it is important to at least remove pets and pet items during buyer showings and also clean & vacuum floors daily to remove any animal odours or animal fur.

TW: Should Homeowners remove pets when buyer showings occur?

Hannah: Yes. This is highly recommended due to any liability issues that can arise from animal bites. While we understand that most domestic dogs/cats are friendly, you never know how they might react to strangers.