News

Photo via Pixabay by chiemsee2016

Selling a home is a big decision, and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are so many things that go into the process, so many details that require a lot of planning and even backup planning. When you have pets, there are added responsibilities to take into consideration, such as how to prepare your home so that the existence of a pet isn’t a deterrent for potential buyers.

Fortunately, there are some simple ways you can get your home buyer-ready. With each new season, there are certain considerations you’ll need to take, so read on to find out more on how to make the process of selling your home go as smoothly as possible year round.

Spring and summer

When you put your house up for sale, one of the most important parts is keeping it clean and organized so that potential buyers can see themselves living there. They’ll be put off by odors and clutter, so go through your home to look for areas that need to be cleaned up and deodorized. In spring, when it tends to be rainy in many parts of the country, it’s a good idea to keep pet wipes by the back door to clean your dog’s feet off when he comes in. You can pick up grooming wipes at your local pet store or make your own. If you have tile or laminate flooring, give it a once-over with the mop every day to keep it looking good. Spring and summer are the most popular seasons for house hunters to begin their search, so it’s important to be on top of your game during this time.

Fall and winter

Cooler days can mean unpredictable weather, but it also means you can take the opportunity to make your home warm, inviting, and scented with pumpkin spice and other seasonal scents. Make your house irresistible during open houses by cooking up some cider for visitors, and make arrangements for your pet to stay with a friend or sitter. For many pet owners, their dogs are like their children, which can make it hard to keep them away from home. However, potential buyers are attracted to homes that appear clean and smell good, and having your pet inside can give the impression that there will be damage or strong odors in the house.

It’s also a good idea to keep a small bowl of room-temperature water by the door when your pet is home so you can clean off his feet, especially in the wintertime. After going for a walk, he may have ice or chemicals on his paws that may cause him injury or leave tracks through your home.

Other Considerations

When you’re ready to move, it’s best to seek out dog-friendly movers. Compare several different moving companies to make sure they are comfortable working around dogs, especially if you own a typically aggressive breed, or if you own multiple dogs. Several companies offer side-by-side online comparisons (prices, reviews, qualifications, etc.) for local moving companies, such as this one. Spend time doing your research and be sure to call to ask additional questions if you can’t find what you’re looking for online.

Remember that the process of selling a home can be an intimidating one, but as long as you come prepared with a plan, you’ll be able to make it run smoothly. Give your dog lots of love and attention during this time, as big changes can make pets anxious.