|
10 Tips for
Pet-Owning Sellers
Pet-owning sellers may turn off potential buyers if they don’t keep Fido
or Fifi out-of-sight during showings.
"If a dog
or cat is around during a showing, I've found that a buyer either freaks
out because they're afraid of or allergic to animals, or they fall in love
with the pet and don't pay attention to the house," says Maria Rovegno, a
broker with Prudential Douglas Elliman in Port Washington on New York’s
Long Island.
Here is a
list of advice for sellers when showing a house that has a pet:
1. Remove
photos of pets from the walls, shelves, or refrigerators.
2. Clean
food and water bowls regularly, and hide them when not in use.
3. Stash
away pet toys, crates, carriers, and leashes.
4. Vacuum
carpets, upholstery, and wood floors.
5. Keep
litter boxes clean and out of sight, and remove signs of doggy potty pads.
6. Open
windows to let in fresh air.
7.
Neutralize odors with fresh-smelling candles and air sanitizers.
8. Hire
professionals to remove unsightly pet stains.
9. Board
or crate animals during open houses.
10.
Repair visible signs of pet damage, such as scratched walls or floors.
Source: Newsday, Aimee
Fitzpatrick Martin |
