Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Why Pets May Halt Your Northern Virginia Home Sale

Have you met my dog, Cowboy? All of us probably have a pet in our Northern Virginia homes and allow them to enjoy the property just as much as we do. And sure, you love your pet, but chances are other homebuyers will not when they come to tour your home. It many cases, pets can actually deter a home sale! So what's the way around it? Make arrangements for your pet to take a vacation during showings and open houses. Here are a few more reasons for you to consider that pet "holiday":

 Pets are a distraction to buyers
There is a staging rule for Northern Virginia real estate that you try to de-personalize the space as much as possible. In order for homebuyers to visualize themselves living in the home, the property should be free of personal photos and items— and that means, pets. They are a very personal part of your home and buyers can be easily swayed. For instance, you wouldn't walk behind buyers as they tour your home, so why let your pets?

 Some buyers have pet phobias
You never know, a buyer may fall in love with your Northern Virginia home, but be scared of dogs, cats, or whatever other critter you have as a pet. "If your pet is still in the hoe, that perfect buyer may not get much further than the front porch," warns MSN Real Estate. "Any other time, your pet can rule the roost, but during the critical selling period, be hyper-aware of potential anxieties and aversions."

 Dander and Hair
Now even if you remove your pet from the premises during showings, their hair and dander still remains. Take extra precautions to deep clean your home before a potential buyer passes through the front door— clean carpets to remove any trace of dust, dirt, or pet hair. One more thing— don't forget to remove the litter box which can also harbor these things.

 Keep your pets happy
You love your pets, so let them be as free as they typically are! Some home sellers think they can just lock their pets in a bedroom during a showing, but that restricts both the pet and the buyer. The buyer then cannot see that area of the home and the pet may make noise due to the situation. Keep your pets (and buyers!) happy and arrange for them to vacation somewhere else during this time.

 Want more tips for selling your homes in Northern Virginia? I'm happy to help! Contact me with any questions you might have.

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna.

Earle Whitmore


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