Dogs Everywhere!

Ok cats too!

There are so many animal lovers out there. I'm one of them ;). My 10yr. old doggy wonder is asleep on my lap.

Yesterday I did 3 staging consults with either a dog or a cat or both in the house.

While as a person, I love meeting all these pets, as a Stager I know that they will be a problem while selling.

Most buyers and Realtors would prefer not to be greeted by your dog or cat no matter how friendly.

They don't want to listen to your crated dog crying or barking in a crate.

It makes them rush through the viewing.

Some will skip the viewing all together.

While they are dealing with your pup or kitty they are not focused on your house.

The focus of the buyer should always be on the features of your home.

Think how your dog will feel when he is all alone and someone has just invaded his territory.

Maybe he will welcome them and expect them to let him out ... that's not going to happen.

Will your cat escape out the front door?

There is also the issue of smells from pets. Particularly kitty litter. I had one client who was going away for a few days. While the seller had someone coming in ,they would not be dealing with the litter box sitting in the laundry room. I pointed out the problem but the client was unwilling to change its location.

Do you really want to narrow down your buyer pool to animal lovers?

Take Fido for a walk during viewings.

If you leave Fido home alone while you are at work consider a dogie daycare or a relative.

Ask a neighbor or a friend to be available if your agent calls.

Make sure the beds, toys, dishes etc are out of the way. Do your best to shampoo any area where the oils of the coat or accidents may leave a lingering scents.

Do yourself, your dog/cat and the buyers a favor and make your home an animal free zone for viewings.