Selling a Home With Pets? How to Make Your Property More Appealing to Buyers

For millions of homeowners, pets aren’t just animals—they’re members of the family.

But when you’re preparing to sell your home, it’s important to remember that prospective buyers may experience the property differently than you do.

A home that’s comfortable for your dog or cat may contain odors, scratches, stains, or other evidence of pets that could distract buyers from seeing the home’s best features.

The good news is that you don’t have to hide the fact that you have pets. A little preparation can help your home show at its best.

Start With Odors

This is probably the most important consideration.

Even if you’re accustomed to your home’s smells, buyers may notice them immediately.

Deep cleaning carpets, upholstery, rugs, and other areas where pets spend significant time can make a noticeable difference.

If necessary, consider professional cleaning rather than relying solely on air fresheners.

Look at the Floors

Pets can be hard on flooring.

Before listing, walk through your home and look for scratches, stains, worn areas, or damaged transitions.

Not every imperfection requires replacement. But obvious problems are worth discussing with your real estate agent to determine whether addressing them makes financial sense.

Don’t Forget the Yard

The exterior is part of the showing experience too.

Make sure the yard is clean, picked up, and reasonably maintained.

If you have a dog, pay particular attention to areas of the lawn that have been heavily used.

Also consider the condition and appearance of fencing, gates, and outdoor pet areas.

Put Away the Evidence During Showings

Pet beds, crates, food bowls, toys, litter boxes, and other supplies can make rooms feel more cluttered.

Before a showing, consider temporarily storing as many pet-related items as practical.

This isn’t about pretending pets don’t live there. It’s about allowing buyers to focus on the home itself.

Have a Plan for Showings

Pets can create an additional challenge during showings.

Some buyers may be uncomfortable around animals. Others may have allergies. And even the friendliest pet can become nervous when strangers enter the house.

Consider arranging for pets to be out of the home during showings whenever possible.

Your agent can help establish a showing plan that works for both you and your pets.

Think About What Buyers Will Notice

Try walking through your home as though you’re seeing it for the first time.

What do you notice?

Is there fur on the furniture? A scratched door? A strong odor? A backyard that’s clearly been used as a pet area?

Taking an objective look can help you identify simple improvements before buyers arrive.

The Bottom Line

Selling a pet-friendly home doesn’t mean you have to erase every sign that an animal lives there.

The goal is simply to present a clean, comfortable, well-maintained home where buyers can imagine themselves living.

A little preparation can help make sure your pets don’t accidentally become the first thing buyers remember about your property.

Thinking about selling? A Coldwell Banker Hearthside agent can help you determine which preparation steps are worth your time and investment before your home hits the market.