THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELLING and MOVING WITH PETS
Many of us call dogs, cats, fish, hamsters, birds or even snakes our beloved pets! Our family, for one, has had a number of them over the years. Currently, we share our space with a lovely 8-year old lab who puts up with us more than we put up with him :). Over the years, he has taught us the do’s and don’ts of selling and moving with pets.
The idea of moving can be exciting and thrilling, but it can also bring about anxiety, uncertainty, and displacement. Our furry friends are no different and can experience the same emotions, and sometimes even to a greater degree. It is important to consider your pet and how they will accept and navigate through the selling and moving process. Here are some things that have helped us navigate with our furry family members.
SELLING PHASE
Preparing your property to sell. What does it mean? In most cases, it can require a deep clean of carpets, some decluttering of cabinets/closets and removal of personal items and if you have a pet, this can include:
Pet Evidence
A buyer should have the most positive experience while viewing a property. You want them to “feel” themselves in the home. Stinky litter bins, messy food containers and tripping over puppy toys can have the opposite effect! If you’ve sold and had a pet, you’ve most likely been asked to remove “pet evidence”, particularly the stinky kind.
Take the time and store away as many pet items as possible. Only keep necessary things that can be put away at a moment’s notice. Be ready to move crates, scratching posts, dog beds, and cages out of sight before leaving the house. Don’t forget the water and food bowls, put them under the sink or in a closet.
It’s equally important that “pet evidence” is omitted from photographs/videos. Online listings set the first impression. Make sure to put everything out of sight before leaving the house the day of the photoshoot.
Pet Damage
Buyers can expect some property wear and tear – however, if they feel that a property has not been properly maintained, it raises red flags. The same can be said for damage caused by pets. Remove any damaged items and fix all others (as best as possible). Don’t forget the yards. The front yard is the first thing buyers see. Make sure it’s clean and void of any pet evidence. For items that can’t be removed, showcase them or try to blend them in.
Pet Smells
Pet smells may not be agreeable to everyone. In fact, you may not realize that your home has such an odour. Take the time and properly clean fabrics/furniture/carpets etc. Use pet-specific deodorizers or enzyme cleaners as they neutralize odour rather than masking it. If possible, have them professionally cleaned. After cleaning, have someone not regularly in the environment come over and see their reaction. How they react may be the same as buyers.
Manage Pets During Showings/Open House
It’s hard for buyers to focus on the stunning qualities of your home if there’s a dog barking in a crate or a cat scratching at the basement door. The sight and sounds of pets are distracting at best and can stress buyers. And don’t forget, having strangers in the house can be stressful on your pet as well. Pre-arrange where your pet will be during showings – can they stay with a family member/doggie-daycare?
If the pets must remain home, advise your realtor, they will make sure to leave a note for potential buyers with instructions, such as “friendly dog in home, please don’t let out”.
As a pet lover, it may be hard to imagine that anyone can dislike pets. Sometimes, it may be more than just not liking pets, it could be an allergy. Just remember that the time you invest before the showings will pay off for you, the buyers and also your pets.
MOVING PHASE
As with the selling phase, changes arising from moves can cause emotional stress on our pets. Along with preparing yourself for the move, make sure to prepare for the needs of your pet.
Prepare a “Pet Kit”
Have an accessible bag on hand with your pet’s food, favourite treats, toys and, if necessary, grooming supplies – things that will sustain your pet and keep them comfortable during the first few days of unpacking.
Don’t Forget the Veterinarian
Make sure that your vet has your new contact information or if moving out of the area, make sure to have a vet sourced and ready to go. Don’t forget to update their tags/microchips too!
Reduce Stress
If possible, schedule a day away from the action. Have them stay with family/friends on moving day. If that’s not possible, find a quiet spot for them – keep them away from the action. This could mean placing them in the backyard or even crating them in a quiet area of the new house. Keeping to routine is important, so try to keep their walks/feed times the same.
Remember, it’s all new to them. Introduce them slowly. Let them explore the home. Keep an eye on them to ensure they are not showing signs of anxiety. Have their belongings in the home ahead of time. Do whatever you can to make them feel that not much has changed.
