Home sellers: de-pet your home

Why do I have to de-pet my house to sell it?

I love dogs. I have dogs. I can’t imagine my home without them. That said, I know that, no matter how clean you keep your animals and your house, there is usually a certain pet smell that our houses have. As a home dweller, that’s fine; if it doesn’t bother you, it’s not a problem. However, as a home seller, it is to your advantage to erase as much evidence as possible that pets have lived there. Primarily, it’s an odor issue, but pets can also cause damage to flooring, baseboards, etc. Their hair can impact the HVAC system and cleanliness of the air in the house, which is of particular concern to people with allergies or asthma. Their toys, beds and bowls can also make the house look less pristine than it should/could for showings and pictures. So, my recommendation is to de-pet your home as much as possible when you are trying to sell it.

What you should do

A caveat: if you are still living in the house, it might be difficult to fully eliminate any and all signs of your pets; often pets are crated on site for showings, so their presence will be obvious. Nevertheless, try to address as many points on the following list as possible.

1. Deep Clean: Start by thoroughly cleaning your home, including carpets, upholstery, and any pet bedding. Use pet-specific odor neutralizers to eliminate any lingering smells. Be sure to take this step in advance of showings, so there is no cloying “cleaning” smell.
2. Repair Damage: Repair any pet-related damage to the property, such as scratches on doors or floors. Repaint walls if necessary to cover up any pet-related stains or marks. If your upholstery shows signs of pet damage, consider covering it,
3. Remove Pet Items: Clear the home of all visible signs of pets, including pet toys, food and water bowls, food containers, litter boxes, and pet beds. Even if you are using them while living there, store these items out of sight during showings and open houses.
4. Air Out the Home: Allow fresh air to circulate throughout the home by opening windows and using air purifiers (but not scented air fresheners!) to help remove any pet odors.
5. Be sure to clean up your yard–this step includes not only the obvious piles, but also and holes that have been dug or fences that have been damaged. Toys should be stored out of sight as well.
6. If you (or a neighbor/friend/relative) can remove the pet during showings, vs. leaving it crated in the house, it will improve the showing experience for the buyer.