What is what to do with dogs when selling house?

Selling your house with dogs requires careful planning to minimize stress for both you, your dogs, and potential buyers. Here's a breakdown of key considerations:

• During Showings & Open Houses:

  • Remove Dogs: Ideally, your dogs should be completely removed from the house during showings and open houses. This is crucial for safety, cleanliness, and to allow potential buyers to focus on the property. Consider options like:
    • Doggy Daycare: A great option for a few hours or a full day. [Doggy Daycare]
    • Boarding: Longer term boarding if necessary. [Boarding]
    • Friends/Family: Ask a trusted friend or family member to watch them. [Friends/Family]
    • Take them for a ride: Take them to park or the riverside where they can run around freely. [Take%20them%20for%20a%20ride]
  • Clean Thoroughly: Even if you remove your dogs, a deep clean is essential. Pay special attention to:
    • Dog Hair: Vacuum and sweep thoroughly to remove all dog hair. [Dog%20Hair]
    • Odors: Address any dog-related odors. Consider professional cleaning or enzymatic cleaners. [Odors]
    • Accidents: Thoroughly clean any past accidents with enzymatic cleaners designed for pet messes. [Accidents]
  • Secure the Property: If removing your dogs isn't possible, make sure they are safely and securely confined during showings. Options include:
    • Crates: Use a crate if your dog is comfortable with it. [Crates]
    • Specific Room: Designate a specific room (like a spare bedroom or bathroom) where the dogs can stay. Inform your realtor so they can inform potential buyers not to enter. [Specific%20Room]
  • Warning Sign: Post a clear and polite warning sign indicating that dogs are present and should not be approached without your permission. [Warning%20Sign]

• During the Selling Process:

  • Disclose: Disclose that you have dogs to potential buyers. This helps manage expectations. [Disclose]
  • Repair Damage: Repair any damage caused by your dogs, such as scratches on doors or floors. [Repair%20Damage]
  • Consider Dog-Friendly Buyers: If possible, target your marketing towards dog-friendly buyers. [Dog-Friendly%20Buyers]
  • Update your real estate agent: Always keep your real estate agent in the loop about your pet situation. They can communicate with prospective buyers and make appropriate arrangements for showings. [real%20estate%20agent]

• Moving Day:

  • Keep Dogs Safe: Moving day is stressful for everyone, including your dogs. Ensure they are kept safe and secure, ideally away from the chaos. Boarding or a friend's house are good options. [Keep%20Dogs%20Safe]
  • Settle them in New Home: Prioritize settling your dogs into your new home as quickly as possible to reduce their stress and anxiety. [Settle%20them%20in%20New%20Home]