Tips for Selling a Home When You Have A Dog

Dogs might be man’s best friend, but that doesn’t mean it will be easy to stage and show a home with a four-legged gatekeeper on the job. From an overly exuberant personality to a downright gruff demeanour, dogs can make it tough to show a home. The following are some ways to minimize distress to Fido and ensure that visitors are safe and that the house remains as appealing as possible.

Clean It Up

Because we love our dogs, we don’t always see what is in front of our very eyes. Take a good look around. Pick up the dog toys, fill any holes in the backyard, and be sure to dust and vacuum any pet hair before allowing anyone in the home.

Notify

Make sure the listing agent includes a note informing everyone about a dog on the premises and any special instructions for dealing with visitors. Not only will this prevent a sudden visit that could startle the dog, but it will also provide important information to buyers who may have asthma or allergies.

Schedule

Whenever possible, ask agents to schedule visits around a time when you can take the dog out for a walk or drive. This allows prospective buyers and the agent to focus on the home and its amenities rather than on the pet.

Contingency Plans

Take special precautions to make sure pets have proper identification. Mistakes happen, and a beloved pet can escape or get loose without anyone realizing it. Leave special instructions on where the pet belongs at all times and what to do in the event of an emergency.