kama@ncpetfriendly.com

6 Important Things Every Pet-Owner Should Consider When Buying a Home

May 27, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

I work with clients to make sure we’ve identified all of their housing needs, especially those that will make a good home for their pet. We might uncover new things they hadn’t considered or discover a few must-haves for their new home. I always ask my pet-parent clients specific questions so we can identify the floor plan that will best accommodate their pet. Will they need a fenced yard, how well does their pet do on stairs, will they need a walk-in shower for bathing, etc. There are many things pet-owners should consider when preparing to buy:

Pet owner restrictions and local laws.

Before purchasing a home, you’ll want to check local pet laws and restrictions and how they might affect you, your pet, and your lifestyle. Especially important if moving to a new city, pet-owners should familiarize themselves with breed-specific laws within the city and state. It’s also a good idea to check the law for legal limits on the number of animals you can own in your home; you could be required to hold a kennel license when housing multiple animals. For example, in North Carolina a permit is required if you have 3 or more dogs or cats. Good to know, right?

If considering condo living or a home with an HOA, they, too, often have pet restrictions you should be aware of. You can read more about those here: HOA Rules Home Buyers Should Watch Out for, to Protect Their Pets.

Whether the neighborhood (or your neighbors) is pet friendly.

This one can be tricky but it’s oh so important! The last thing you want is to buy a new home, move in, and discover that your new neighbor despises animals. You can’t always meet the neighbor, but you can increase your chances of that happening. Look at potential homes in the evening hours when neighbors are more likely to be home, or view homes during an open house when others in the neighborhood are taking a peek and you can ask them and the selling agent ‘what they know’. You can drive around the neighborhood at specific times of the day to get a feel of the traffic, and whether or not it’s a pet friendly environment. For your pet’s safety, avoid choosing a home that is directly located on a busy street.

The home’s layout, flooring, and features.

To make sure you and your pet are comfortable in your new home, it’s important you take the time to assess all of the home’s features, inside and out, and the layout. You’ll want to consider your lifestyle and what that will look like in this new home. Do you have a big dog that needs additional space? Does your pet spend more time outdoors or in? Do you have more than one pet and they need space to run and play together? Will your cat need a window ledge to nap in? Is your dog older and unable to climb stairs? Do you need wood or laminated flooring instead of carpet? Do you need a spot for that litter box or a closet for pet supplies? Is a walk-in shower necessary for bathing? You’ll want to consider every aspect of a potential home. And with a clear understanding of your needs you’ll be able to make the right decision when choosing a new home.

The front yard, back yard, and fencing.

You don’t want the front yard to rest on a busy, high-traffic street. All it takes is an open door or fence for your pet to dart out into traffic. If the home has a fence, inspect it well; you’ll want to make sure it’s high enough your dog can’t jump over it and be aware of any loose boards or a faulty gate that needs repaired. If the yard doesn’t have a fence, review the HOA and condo restrictions to make sure you’re allowed to add a fence, as well as the requirements for the materials, style, and size of the fence.

Accessibility to local pet services.

Maybe not at the top of the list for everyone but definitely something to consider. How accessible is your home to a good veterinarian or emergency care? Can you purchase pet food nearby? Where’s the nearest pet-supply store? Is there a pet salon or groomer close? You’ll want to consider whether or not you can get the services you need for your pet within a reasonable distance.

What pet-friendly amenities are nearby.

If you enjoy walking your dog or spending time with your pet outdoors this one is a must. Look for green spaces for your pup. Ask your agent and drive around to discover if there are dog parks or trails nearby. Look for any pet-friendly restaurants in the area or other pet-friendly spots.

Purchasing a new home is an opportunity to buy something that both you and your pet can enjoy. It should make your life easier, not harder. Consider everything that is important to you. Your budget might not get everything on the list but together I know we can find something that you and your family, and pets, will love.

5 Great Neighborhoods in the Charlotte, North Carolina Area for Pet-Parents

May 26, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

Charlotte, North Carolina has a lot of really great neighborhoods to live-in but choosing the right one for your family and pets can be challenging. And although many dog-lovers call Charlotte home, not every neighborhood is pet-friendly or has the right blend of accessibility or amenities nearby. To help, I took it upon myself to give you a quick overview of some great neighborhoods in Charlotte for pets and their parents.

Ballantyne

One of the most desirable neighborhoods in Charlotte, Ballantyne is an upscale neighborhood conveniently located on the South Carolina border. Home to the 5-star Ballantyne Golf Resort & Spa, the Ballantyne Hotel, Country Club, and Corporate Park, it’s a highly sought-after area in an affluent part of town. The St. Matthew Catholic Church, the largest Catholic congregation in the United States, also resides in Ballantyne. Houses here tend to sell quickly and multiple offers are common.

Most importantly though, Ballantyne is a great place to live with dogs. Nearby you’ll find the Davie Dog Park, the Ballantyne Veterinary Clinic, more than one dog-friendly eatery, the Pampered Paws at The Fountains grooming salon, and multiple pet shops and stores. Ballantyne puts you near the center of everything and offers plenty of green space for you and your dogs to enjoy; it’s a beautiful area for both you and your pets to live.

Sharon Woods

Located in south Charlotte, Sharon Woods was recently pegged as a Top 100 Neighborhood in the US and recognized for being a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood. Sharon Woods is an established neighborhood with a suburban feel. It rests just six miles from Uptown and only 5 minutes from the SouthPark Mall, the largest mall in North Carolina. Nearby you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, and more. Residents love that you’re close to everything you need yet hidden away from all the hustle and bustle.

The neighborhood is quiet, and people often walk their dogs. Neighbors here do a great job of cleaning up and caring for their pets, and it’s well-kept. There’s plenty of wide sidewalks and green grass for you and your pup to enjoy, but if that’s not enough there are two dog-friendly parks within driving distance of Sharon Woods. William R. Davie Park is 6 miles to the south and Frazier Dog Park is 6 miles to the north.

Dilworth

South of downtown, Dilworth is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Charlotte. Being the first streetcar suburb outside of the four wards, Dilworth was designed in a similar grid-like style and is home to delightful bungalows with an occasional Victorian or colonial style in the mix. Here you’ll see great front porches, beautiful mature oak trees, and plenty of sidewalks. The Carolina Medical Center, Charlotte’s largest hospital, is also located in Dilworth.

The access to amenities is appealing for dog-owners. In Dilworth you’ll find plenty of stops for pet supplies, the Canine Café, and two animal hospitals. There are two free parks located in Dilworth. The Edward Latta Park that sits on a generous 32-acres, and Pearle Street Park; both parks allow dogs to play on their multi-use fields and have plenty of walking trails for you and your fur-kids to explore.

NoDa

Short for North Davidson, NoDa is the city’s popular arts and entertainment district. In the heart of this neighborhood, you’ll find plenty of artisan gift shops, live music, art, great cuisine, and dive bars. NoDa is considered one of Charlotte’s best neighborhoods because of its close proximity to downtown and its community vibe. It’s a fun place to live.

NoDa offers more than just the arts scene and can be enjoyed by pets and their owners, too. North Charlotte Park is nearby with plenty of fields and hiking trails, The Dog Bar allows your dogs to play off-leash while you grab a drink, and the NoDa Brewing Company is just one of many establishments that welcome your dogs. You can grab pet supplies nearby and NoDa is in close proximity to a vet clinic and the Uptown Veterinary Hospital.

SouthPark

The neighborhood of SouthPark sits six miles south of Uptown Charlotte. It’s a large residential area as well as Charlotte’s largest business district. SouthPark is the area that has it all. Work, schools, healthcare, shopping, and restaurants; living in SouthPark gives you access to everything. And although it’s busier during the daytime hours, nights are quiet and it’s a great place to live.

Because of the number of residents and employees in the area a lot has been invested into the SouthPark area. You can find all your pet needs here and it’s a fantastic place for you and Rover to live. Ray’s Fetching Meadow is a great off-leash dog park nearby, there are a nice selection of eateries that allow dogs, and you have plenty of grooming options to choose from. SouthPark is home to four veterinary clinics ensuring you have access to the best medical care for all your pets.

Charlotte has many neighborhoods that are ideal for pet families and I can help you find yours.

If we don’t find it in Charlotte, we can explore other options. I want you to be excited for your next home.

If you are a parent to a big dog or multiple dogs, you might even consider looking on the outskirts of town where you’ll find less restrictions and more open spaces. At the very least I recommend searching for those homes on at least an acre, this will ensure you and your canine friends have plenty of space to run and play, and a little greenery doesn’t hurt either.

Discover Greensboro, North Carolina’s Popular Off-Leash Dog Parks

May 25, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

If you’re a dog lover, you probably support giving ole Rover plenty of time outdoors to run free and play. They are spirited animals that need regular exercise to stay healthy, and they deserve the freedom of being off leash often.

Many outdoor destinations, trails, and parks require dogs to be kept on a leash these days, but Greensboro is home to a few off-leash dog parks that offer plenty of space for your pup to play and run. These are worth a visit:

Southwest Park Dog Park

Your fur-kids will love to roam free in this fenced 2.5 acre off-leash dog park. A gem in Guilford Country, this scenic park has a lot to offer pets and their parents. In addition to the dog park, Southwest Park in Greensboro has ball fields, picnic shelters, plenty of scenic trails, and a lake for fishing; they’ll even let you rent a boat.

The dog park itself is located in a secluded wooded area of the park (which I love!). You’ll want to follow the trail by the maintenance shed, through the woods, to get to the dog park. There are separate sections for large and small dogs, and community water and bowls are provided. The dog park rests adjacent to a couple nice pet-friendly nature trails, but a leash is required when on the trails. It’s not uncommon to see wildlife and birds here. It’s a cool place definitely worth exploring.

LeBauer Park Dog Park

The LeBauer Park Dog Park is in a great location in downtown Greensboro. LeBauer is a great park for families, and there is plenty to do for all ages. The park has fountains, sculptures, cornhole games, ping pong tables, ornamental gardens, a kid zone, splashpad, and more. The park often hosts movie nights, concerts, and other events, as well as a skating rink in the winter.

The small dog park accommodates 20 small- to medium-sized dogs and their owners and is exactly right for those sizes. Best of all, it’s so clean! Well maintained, this park has a water fountain for the dogs and provides waste bags, too. A newly created green space has been added for you to walk your dog on a leash and they do offer pet enrichment activities. It really is a nice park to spend an afternoon outdoors.

Stephen M. Hussey BarkPark at Country Park

Established in 2003, Stephen M. Hussey’s Bark Park is Greensboro’s first off-leash dog park. Open sunrise to sunset, the dog park offers plenty of space to run or explore and has both shaded and sunny areas for play; I especially love the big trees here for shade during the hot summer. The off-leash dog park is divided into 3 separate spaces with air-lock gates. The park has a water fountain for the dogs, water bowls, and lots of toys and tennis balls for them to play with. Another big plus is they have plenty of seating for pet-parents, including benches and lawn chairs. Before you go, you should be aware that they don’t allow any children in the area near the dog park (for safety reasons) and if you bring them, you might be asked to leave. If you opt to walk the trails with your pup instead, a leash is required.

Griffin Recreation Center – Griffin Community Park

The Griffin Recreation Center in Greensboro is an amazing facility. It offers free fitness classes for seniors, has basketball courts, and a fitness center in a great location with affordable rates. There is a handicapped-accessible path from the Rec Center parking lot directly to the dog park. The dog park is a fenced, two-acre shaded area that is separated into 2 sections, one for small dogs and one for larger dogs. The dog park is evolving but the park itself is a huge 48-acres with plenty of nicely paved trails; and dogs are welcome on the trails as long as they are leashed.

Doggo’s Dog Park & Pub

A private Dog Park & Pub serving 21+ and those dogs that are fixed, friendly, and vaccinated. Doggo’s is 10,000 square feet of space that dogs can run and play in, off-leash, and it’s fully supervised by the dog park staff. The facility is nice, comfortable, and the play area has a nice set-up.

Doggo’s isn’t free but they do offer a day pass, monthly and annual passes. It’s a nice spot to grab a cold one and let your dog play in a fun, safe environment. The staff do a great job, and they screen every dog that comes in. People who don’t have dogs are welcome and many others enjoy coming out for a drink and watching the doggies play. It really is a great place to unwind and have a little fun.

Why It’s Important to Work with a Pet-Friendly Real Estate Agent

May 7, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

If you’re like me and you love animals, and your pet is part of your family, you’re going to want to work with an experienced pet-friendly real estate agent. Buying and selling a home can be stressful but even more so when you’ve got pets and children to care for. A realtor with a love for animals and personal experience working with pet-parents makes the process a lot easier. They understand that your pet will be part of the process and how best to work with that.

There are many reasons to work with a pet-friendly real estate agent. Here’s why it’s important:

Pet-owners are generally more personable, approachable, and likable.

People say I’m easy to work with. I think that’s because I try to relate to people and believe in building lasting relationships instead of just completing a business transaction. Throughout the process I am genuinely interested in getting to know my clients, understanding their individual needs, and I work hard getting them to the closing table with the least amount of headache as possible.

Pet-friendly agents have a network they can tap into.

I make it a point to stay connected to my pet-owner clients and those in the pet community, and I’m able to bring that to the table for my clients. It’s not uncommon for me to have a buyers list of clients looking for the perfect home for their pet and their lifestyle. Not all pet-owners have the same needs and that’s why it’s important to have that access to the local community, other pet-loving buyers and sellers, and other real estate agents. When clients choose me, they get access to my network.

They find buyers pet-friendly housing to meet their individual needs.

I work with clients to make sure we’ve identified all of their housing needs, especially those that will make a good home for their pet. We might uncover some new things they hadn’t considered. I always ask my pet-parent clients specific questions so that we can identify the floor plan that will best accommodate their pet. Will they need a fenced yard, how well does their pet do on stairs, will they need a walk-in shower for bathing, etc. There are many things pet-owners should consider when preparing to buy. You can read more about that here: Pet Owners: What to Consider When Buying a House

They help buyers find a home in a pet-friendly neighborhood.

Unfortunately, not all neighborhoods will appreciate your pet. As an experienced agent I have a good understanding of the neighborhoods in Charlotte, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem and I can help you find a home in a neighborhood that is well-suited for you and your family. Location and walkability might be one of the most important factors in deciding on a home for you and your pet.

An experienced pet-friendly real estate agent knows what to look for from an HOA and condo association.

There are advantages to having an HOA and condo living but it’s not uncommon for them to have guidelines relating to pets. There are HOA Rules that Home Buyers Should Watch Out for to Protect Their Pets. An HOA might limit the number of pets you can have, only approve of specific breeds, have a weight limit, require a pet be spayed or neutered, or limit your ability to build the fence you need. I know what to look for in those documents, so you have a full understanding of what you’re signing up for before we make an offer.

They know the ins and outs of the area from a pet-owner perspective.

I can introduce you to dog-friendly parks and trails nearby, the nearest animal clinic or emergency hospital, and help you locate services like grooming or dog-walking. We’ll talk about what’s important to you and I’ll find you a home nearby.

They know how to highlight your homes attributes to appeal to pet owners.

I know what pet-owners are looking for in a home and can advise you on the small things you can do that will make your home stand out. I can create a listing for your home with selling points that appeal directly to pet-owners. Staging your home to specifically appeal to pet-owners can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells; it’s something you might want to consider.

They understand the challenges of showing your home when you have pets.

Realtors will always insist that you and your pet is not on-site during showings. Although you might not think this is a big deal, it’s what’s most comfortable for the buyer. I understand the challenge that brings for you and your pet and will work with you to put in place a process that’s doable. We will identify days and times that work best and agree on how much notice you’ll need before showings. I will honor our agreement and hold people to that when scheduling. I do recommend you make showing times available as much as possible, we’ll figure it out together. I know How Pet Owners Should Prepare for and Can Have a Successful Showing.

Pet-friendly agents can help sellers overcome obstacles that pet owners face.

Unprepared pet-parents can run into challenges selling their home. I’ll do a complete assessment of where we’re at and make recommendations so you can avoid that. There are certain things about pets that can turn-off a buyer even if they own pets themselves. Pet odors and flooring are biggies but there are some others. I’ll make sure you’re prepared and have a good understanding of what needs to happen to get your home show ready.

If your ready to buy or sell and have a four-legged friend in your family, you’re going to want to work with someone who has an appreciation for animals, and a love for pets. Choose your realtor wisely.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Parks in Charlotte, North Carolina

May 6, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

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I have a big heart for animals, and I have no doubt you do, too. As pet-parents we have the responsibility of giving our dogs plenty of opportunities to be active. Dogs need regular exercise; they are active energetic animals that need regular stimulation. Luckily, Charlotte is a great place for that.

At home you can take your dog for walks around the neighborhood or stroll downtown, but they require a leash. Dog parks give our four-legged friends total freedom to run and socialize with other dogs. Here you can free your dog from the confinements of your home and the leash. It’ll improve their mood, and health. Who knows, maybe you’ll make a few new friends, too.

Charlotte, North Carolina is a dog-friendly town. Whether you’re just visiting or plan to make Charlotte your home, here you’ll find quite a few dog parks for you and your pup to enjoy and explore. It can be tiresome trying to find the right one, but no worries I’ve done the work for you. I’ve put together a complete list of the top pet-friendly parks.

Top Dog Parks in Charlotte, North Carolina

Frazier Place Dog Park

Address: 1201 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28208

Located along I-77 near West Trade and Sycamore Streets, this hidden gem has plenty of space for your dog to run around. Your dog will make many friends here. Frazier dog park has 2 separate fenced spaces for small and large dogs, plenty of seating areas, communal water bowls, and a plastic pool. I do wish there were a little more grass in some areas as it can get muddy, you’ll want to bring a towel. It’s not the biggest or the smallest of the dog parks but it’s definitely one of the more popular ones; it’s a nice park.

William R. Davie Dog Park

Address: 4635 Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte, NC 28226

Located in the William R. Davie District Park in Charlotte you’ll find a big 5-acres of fenced-in, off-leash space perfect for dogs of all sizes. With separate areas for large and small dogs (less than 20 lbs or over 20 lbs) you’ll find plenty of space for your canine-friend to be active and socialize. You can find the public dog park area by heading down the path towards the direction of the woods or by taking the path left of the basketball courts, you’ll know when you’ve reached all the action. Davie Dog Park is well-equipped. You’ll find water fountain for you and a water spigot and bucket for your dog, free doggie waste bag dispensers, and plenty of benches for seating and shade.

Barkingham Park

Address: 2900 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213

Located in the northern section of Reedy Creek Park, Barkingham Dog Park is a generous 4 acres of fenced-in space for dogs to run and play off-leash. This is a beautiful spot to enjoy the dog park, or you can keep the leash on and explore the trails. I like that it has plenty of running space, trees, shade, and 2 sets of double gates. The area for smaller dogs leaves a little to be desired so I recommend this park specifically for medium to large dogs.

Shuffletown Park

Address: 9530 Bellhaven Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28216

This family-friendly park in Charlotte is home to a large 4-acre dog park where dogs can run off-leash in a safe space. The dog areas are all-fenced. The landscape here is what makes this park stand out. There is a gravel section and a shaded section with pine trees that are surrounded by benches. There is a nice walking path around the outside for pet-owners to enjoy. Waste bags and trash cans are provided here. On most days there is water, but you might want to bring your own bowl just in case.

Ray’s Fetching Meadow Dog Run

Address: 8711 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212

Located at the McAlpine Creek Community Park, this dog run provides about an acre of space for your dog to stretch, run, and play. It’s the perfect spot, not too big or small. Plenty of benches have been placed throughout so pet-owners can be comfortable while still having their canine friend within eyesight. This is an off-leash dog run, and it is fenced in. The park itself has a lot to offer making this a convenient and popular stop. I do recommend that you only take your dog there if they are comfortable around other dogs as it is a smaller space than other dog parks.

Mallard Creek & Clarks Creek Greenway

Address: 9729 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28267

Not actually a dog park, Mallard and Clarks Greenway is 7+ miles of paved and gravel trails that run next to a creek bed. It’s a wonderful place for you and your pet to explore together, and it is shaded. Pets are welcome throughout the park but there isn’t a specific area for the dogs, so you’ll have to keep them on the leash. The park itself is family friendly making this a great spot for the entire family to enjoy together.

Skiptown Dog Bar & Indoor Dog Park

Address: 222 Rampart St, Charlotte, NC 28203

Skiptown is a full-service dog bar and indoor park, and they offer a full range of services; daycare, boarding, and indoor/outdoor play for your dog. It’s a fun place to go have a beer and let your dog run and play, and a great place for you both to socialize. If you live in the city this is the spot for dog-parents. Skiptown has plenty of space indoors and out for your dog to play off-leash, a splash pad agility course, and much more. It’s 21 or older; it’s where the adults hangout. Skiptown isn’t free, there is a cost, but they do offer free admission days right now for you to visit before making a commitment. You’ll have to download their app and set-up a profile either way because Skiptown makes sure all pets are up to date on their shots. The staff takes care of all the cleanup and sanitization, which is a huge bonus, and the facilities are kept really clean.

Popular Dog Parks Near Charlotte, North Carolina

These Dog parks aren’t technically in Charlotte, but they’re close enough to count and worth making a stop if you’re looking to try a new spot.

Swaney Pointe K-9 Park

Address: 18441 Nantz Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031

Swaney Pointe rests in Ramsey Creek Park, 30 minutes outside of Charlotte in Cornelius, North Carolina. The dog park is a fenced-in and secure 4-acres of off-leash space for dogs, with two separate spaces for big and small dogs. The dog park itself is pretty basic but there is plenty of space for dogs to run and play and a lot of shade here. This park has a beautiful playground and offers lake access for boats; it’s a beautiful place for a visit.

Tuckaseege Dog Park

Address: 165 Broome St, Mt. Holly, NC 28120

This highly popular dog park is located in Mt Holly, North Carolina; a little over 20 minutes from Charlotte. Tuckaseege is a great park for dogs to run. There are two off-leash spaces for dogs over and under 30 pounds, each surrounded with a secure 5-foot-high chain link fence. There are so many trees inside the dog park that it resembles a forest-setting, your dog will love running in the woods. Water is available, there are a couple of agility apparatuses in each section, and the dog park is well-taken care of. The park offers walking trails that run along the river and a nice playground.

Weddington Road Bark Park

Address: 8955 Weddington Rd, Concord, NC 28027

Weddington’s Bark Park is located in Concord, North Carolina about 20 minutes or so outside of Charlotte. The dog park has plenty of open space for both large and small dogs and secure gates. The park has mounds of dirt, hills, slopes, and some obstacle equipment for dogs to play and get exercise. Dogs love it here! The park is generally clean and has water stations and trash bins with doggy bags which is nice. Canopies over some of the benches make it a nice place for pet-parents especially. There is plenty of parking and its convenient to the park entrance offering easy access.

After all that playing and exercise at a local park, I’m usually ready to grab a bite at a dog-friendly restaurant nearby. Here are The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in and Around Charlotte, North Carolina.

Obstacles Pet-Owners Face Selling Their Homes and How to Overcome Them

May 5, 2021 by kama@ncpetfriendly.com Leave a Comment

Pet owners face unique challenges when it comes to selling their home. If not careful, unprepared pet-parents can find themselves on the market too long and may inadvertently diminish their homes perceived value, losing money in the process. An experienced pet-centered real estate agent can make sure that doesn’t happen.

There are certain things about pets that can be a big turn-off for buyers even if they are pet owners themselves. Before listing your home for sale you’re going to want a pet-friendly realtor that can assess your current situation and work with you to come up with solutions that’ll help you protect and preserve your home’s value.

To get a good understanding of what needs to happen to get your home ready, here are the most common obstacles that pet owners face trying to sell and ways you can overcome them.

If asked, you must disclose

Some states require you to disclose if a pet lives in the home, North Carolina does not. However, if asked you’re obligated to be transparent with potential buyers. Buyers might love animals, but they are extremely critical when it comes to other’s pets in a home they are considering purchasing.

You don’t want to turn-off potential buyers right off the bat, remove all evidence of your pet from your home. Get rid of that litter box, remove photos of pets in the house, put away food and water bowls, pick up all toys, and pack up all pet belongings.

Owners and pets cannot be present during showings

Real estate agents will always recommend that owners not be present during showings but it’s even more important if you have pets. Pets must be removed during the showings. It makes buyers uncomfortable to have owners or their pets around when they are looking at potential homes to buy.

Pets can be unpredictable when strangers are walking through their home, it puts everyone at risk. You CAN be held liable if your pet bites someone while on your property. Some buyers will flat out refuse to look at a home with pets onsite because of a fear of animals. People don’t respond kindly to animals barking, growling, or jumping on them.

Many pet-parent sellers choose to temporarily relocate their pet while selling their home, others allow friends or family to care for them, use boarding services, treat them to a spa day or plan for weekend showings where they can spend the day away with their pets. Scheduling can be tough, know what you’re getting into and work with an agent who also understands this challenge.

Get rid of familiar pet odors

Pet owners are used to the pet odors in their home and often aren’t aware that their home even has an odor. Most visitors are too polite to mention it but it’s an immediate turn-off for potential buyers. Simply spraying air freshener or trying to mask it with scented wax or a candle won’t work, you’ll need to take the time to properly deep clean and deodorize your home. You do not want your home to get a reputation of having a ‘pet smell’, this could have a negative impact on the ability to sell your home and affect your home’s perceived value.

Deep clean every room in the house and don’t miss floors, baseboards, curtains, comforters, and pillows. All fabrics, upholstery, rugs, and textiles should be cleaned and treated with a pet specific deodorizer that neutralizes the odor. If possible, have this done professionally.

Replace all furnace filters with new ones and anything else that can emit a pet smell from your home. An air purifier is a great investment that you can take with you to your new home. Do not trust your own nose, have a friend or neighbor give you an honest opinion about pet odor in the home.

Flooring is important

The condition of your floors can either hurt or help you sell your home. Carpet, unless new, is a turn-off for most buyers especially if you have pets. If floors are damaged from your pets it could make it more difficult to sell your home.

Consider investing in new flooring or having wood floors refinished. If purchasing new is not an option, think about whether you’d be willing to offer a credit towards new floors as an incentive for buyers.

Preparing the property inside and out

Pet damage is inevitable. We love our animals, but they do destroy things. Carpets, furniture, flooring, walls, baseboards, doors, and landscape and fencing can all show signs of pet damage. You need to take a good hard look at the damage inside and outside of your home and make repairs before showing your home. Your home’s curb appeal is the first impression a potential buyer will see, clean up messes in the yard and pay particular attention to the lawn and landscape.

It takes work selling your home when you have pets, but that extra attention can pay off in a big way. Working with an experienced real estate agent will help you prioritize what needs to be done and when, and save you time, effort, and money in the long run.