Comprehensive Guide: Managing Pets When Showing Your Home to Buyers

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Importance of Pet Management When Selling Your Home

Selling a home with pets presents unique challenges and opportunities. While pets are beloved family members, their presence during home showings can introduce distractions, odors, and even liability concerns that may deter potential buyers. Effectively managing pets during the selling process is crucial to presenting your property in its best light and maximizing its market value. This guide provides actionable steps, real-world examples, and professional recommendations to help homeowners with pets navigate showings successfully.

Why Pet Management Matters in Home Showings

First impressions are pivotal in real estate. Many buyers want to envision themselves living in a pet-free, clean space, regardless of their own feelings toward animals. Lingering pet odors, fur, or visible pet items can create a negative perception and even lead to lower offers. According to professional real estate agents, homes that appear well-maintained and neutral attract the broadest range of buyers [1] . Properly handling pets during showings is not just about courtesy-it’s a strategic move to boost your home’s appeal and value.

Step 1: Remove Pets from the Home During Showings

The most effective approach is to remove your pets from the property for the duration of each showing or open house. This eliminates distractions for buyers, reduces the risk of accidents or allergic reactions, and ensures that all visitors feel comfortable exploring your space.

To implement this:

Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to watch your pets temporarily.
Consider using a professional pet daycare or boarding service . Many boarding kennels offer affordable day rates for dogs and cats [1] .
If you work from home, plan showings around your schedule so you can take your pets with you for a walk or drive.

For short-notice showings, having a prepared “pet bag” with essentials (leash, treats, carrier) can make quick exits easier.

Step 2: Hide All Signs of Pets

Buyers may be distracted or put off by visible pet items such as food dishes, litter boxes, beds, toys, and scratching posts. Before every showing:

Stow pet bowls, litter trays, leashes, and beds in a storage area or your car.
Remove pet toys and accessories from the living areas.
Make sure pet crates or carriers are out of sight, unless temporarily needed for containment [2] .

Pay special attention to outdoor areas as well-remove pet waste, toys, and signs of digging from the yard [4] .

Step 3: Deep Clean and Address Odors

One of the most common reasons buyers hesitate on pet-friendly homes is noticeable odors or lingering pet hair. To present your home at its best:

Have carpets, rugs, and upholstery professionally cleaned before listing your property.
Wash or replace pet bedding and regularly vacuum all surfaces.
Ventilate your home thoroughly before each showing to eliminate lingering smells. Consider using odor-neutralizing sprays, but avoid heavy artificial scents that can raise suspicion [5] .
Invite a non-pet-owning friend to walk through your home and point out any residual odors or fur you might overlook [3] .

Addressing odors is especially important in confined spaces like entryways, basements, and bedrooms. A fresh, clean scent makes a strong positive impression.

Step 4: Repair Pet-Related Damage

Minor damage from pets-including scratched doors, chewed trim, or stained carpets-should be repaired before listing your home. These issues can signal neglect to buyers and serve as leverage for lower offers.

Implementation tips:

Patch and repaint scratched walls or baseboards.
Replace or professionally clean soiled carpets and rugs.
Repair damaged screens, woodwork, or landscaping in your yard.
Consider hiring a general contractor for larger repairs to ensure a polished appearance [3] .

Proactively fixing damage can prevent buyer objections and speed up the sales process.

Step 5: Plan for Last-Minute Showings

Real estate showings can be unpredictable, with requests sometimes coming at short notice. To stay prepared:

Keep a checklist of quick steps to tidy pet areas, remove items, and secure your pet.
Have a reliable pet sitter or neighbor on standby for emergencies.
Store all pet supplies in a designated area for rapid cleanup.

If you must leave your pet at home, contain them in a secure, comfortable space (such as a crate or a room with a closed door) and notify your real estate agent so buyers are aware. Include clear signage to prevent surprises [1] .

Step 6: Insurance and Liability Considerations

Even the friendliest pets can become anxious or protective when strangers enter their home. To minimize risk:

Verify that your homeowner’s insurance covers incidents involving pets during showings. Some policies exclude certain breeds or species, so clarify your coverage [4] .
Consider temporarily increasing liability coverage while your home is on the market.
Inform your real estate agent of any special considerations or risks related to your pets.

Proper planning protects both you and potential buyers from unforeseen incidents.

Step 7: Staging Your Home as Pet-Neutral

Staging helps buyers imagine themselves in the space. Aim for a pet-neutral environment by:

Removing personal pet photos and artwork from prominent display.
Ensuring all pet odors and fur are completely eliminated.

A well-staged, neutral home appeals to the widest buyer pool and can lead to faster, higher offers [1] .

Alternative Approaches and Special Circumstances

If removal is not possible-such as with exotic pets or those with medical needs-take extra precautions:

Inform your listing agent and provide written instructions for buyers to avoid the pet’s area.
Use secure enclosures or designated rooms for the pet, with clear signage.
Disclose any allergies, sensitivities, or requirements in advance.

For those who need help finding local pet sitters or boarding facilities, you can search with terms like “pet boarding near me” or contact your veterinarian for referrals. Many communities have local pet-sitting associations or online directories that list reputable options.

Key Takeaways and Final Recommendations

Successfully showing a home when you have pets requires planning, flexibility, and attention to detail. Removing pets, hiding evidence of their presence, deep cleaning, and addressing damage are all essential steps. For best results, consult with your real estate agent, who can provide tailored advice for your specific situation. If you need immediate solutions, consider compiling a list of local pet daycares, sitters, or boarding kennels in advance. By proactively managing your pets, you can create a welcoming, neutral environment that appeals to all buyers and maximizes your home’s value.