Photo via Pixabay by Josch13

For most pet owners, a dog is as beloved as a child, and many individuals bring their pets with them to most places they go. However, there are rules of etiquette to follow when it comes to pets when real estate is involved, whether you’re buying or selling. For instance, you wouldn’t want to walk into someone’s home for an open house carrying your dog, as the owner might have allergies to pet dander.

Sellers should beware, as well, and keep pets safely tucked inside a pet carrier or with a pet sitter while open houses are going on. The selling process is complicated, and real estate agents may want to drop by with a client without much notice, so it’s important to consider the safety and comfort of everyone involved, as well as keep your home looking nice.

Here are some of the best tips on pet etiquette in real estate.

Buyers

It’s always best to leave your dog at home when you’re looking at potential new houses, in part because the owner–who may or may not be home–could have allergies or have small children who are afraid of dogs. If your pet has been sick or needs medication and you don’t want to leave him alone, arrange for a pet sitter while you’re out. It might seem like a lot of hassle, but it could save you trouble down the road.

If you feel it’s in your pet’s best interest to visit the home you know you’ll be purchasing–so he can get acquainted with the new terrain and smells–talk to the real estate agent and the owner first to make sure it’s okay. Until the keys are in your hand, it’s still their home, and it’s always best to run things by them first.

On moving day, be sure to let the movers know you have a pet so that they aren’t caught off-guard. Some moving companies may be more pet-friendly than others, so be sure to do your research. Consider arranging for someone, other than yourself, to be responsible for your pet so he stays safe while the movers are going in and out. When the movers take a break, bring your dog into the home so he can sniff around and check things out. Be sure to put his food and water bowls in a similar place to where they were in the old house–for instance, beside the fridge or in the laundry room–and bring his old toys and bedding so he’ll have something comforting.

Sellers

If you own a pet and are trying to sell your home, it’s a good idea to arrange for a reliable pet sitter who can look after your dog for a few days at a time during the open house process. This can be a lengthy period or it may only take a few weeks, but you’ll want to be prepared in case the real estate agent needs to come by without much notice with a potential buyer. Having dogs in the home could possibly upset the client’s allergies, and no matter how well you clean up after your pet, there’s still bound to be dog hair and toys sitting around the house. You definitely don’t want to have doggie poo to deal with in the yard when buyers are walking around, either, so do a thorough walkthrough before open house days begin and make sure everything is clean and in order.

It’s also a good idea to try and eliminate any pet odors beforehand. You may not even notice the smell, so go outside for a few minutes and walk in the front door with the intention of focusing on the scent of your home. If it smells like a dog, it’s time to get your carpets, curtains, and furniture cleaned. You might also think about investing in a scented oil burner to keep near the front door, just to have a little whiff of freshness when people first walk in.

Remember that, when you’re dealing with real estate–no matter what the perspective–it’s important to keep in mind the needs and comfort of the other people involved. Stay organized and reach out for help when you need it, and don’t forget to enjoy the process!

Article provided by dogetiquette.info