Ready to Tackle the World of Real Estate with Your Furry Friend?
If you're a pet parent, your furry friend is more than just a companion—they're part of your family. When it comes to buying or selling a home, you'll want to consider their unique needs before making a move.
Not sure where to start? Don't worry—as fellow pet-lovers, we have what it takes to help you navigate the ins and outs of the Triangle real estate world with your fur baby. Whether you need some tidying tips or want to find special features for Fido, you'll rest easy knowing TradeMark Residential is on your side.
Things to Look For:
Room to Roam
A fully-fenced yard is one of the top features for pet owners looking to upgrade their homes. Be sure to scope out the terrain during a showing and make sure the fence is fully in-tact—you don't want your pup slipping out because of a small hole!
Pet-Friendly Floors
Let's face it—every pet has had an accident. If you're worried about Fluffy making a mess or scampering on slippery tile, you may want to be on the lookout for pet-safe floors in your next home. Hardwoods are your best bet, as they can be cleaned and refinished as much as you want.
Special Features
Does your pup have trouble navigating steep stairs? Is Fido already accustomed to using a doggy door to get outside? Believe it or not, many sellers have pets of their own—which means some homes might already come with featured tailored to your pets' unique needs.
How to Prepare:
Create a Plan
Although some buyers will love being greeted by Fido at the door, others might be allergic or uncomfortable around animals. Don't let your pet prevent a sale—instead, create a plan with your agent and find a safe place to keep them while buyers are touring your place. You may even want to consider boarding your pet or heading to the local dog park whenever you have a showing.
Eliminate Odors
Pets are great, but their smells definitely leave something to be desired. Unfortunately, litter boxes, smelly crates, and other odors might have already seeped into the carpet. However, steam-cleaning your floors can get things smelling new, and you can even buy special deodorizers to get rid of unwanted scents fast.
Remove Any Signs
Your pet has probably left their own unique touch on your home...in the form of chew marks, endless toys, and some yellow spots on the lawn. Don't let these unsightly features turn buyers off! Instead, make necessary repairs before you list and get creative when it comes to hiding your pet's stuff. You can easily store crates in closets or put conceal food bowls in the pantry.