Live In San Francisco? Here is What to Do About Your Dog So You Can Sell Your House

Live In San Francisco? Here is What to Do About Your Dog So You Can Sell Your House

Buying or selling a home on the Gold Coast takes work as home values skyrocket. And with 15% of Americans dealing with dog allergies, if your castle comes complete with a canine companion, you really have your work cut out for you.

Here is how to downplay your dog’s impact on your home’s value and saleability:

Know the market. You should be familiar with current market conditions before you list. Whether you’re selling a small condo or grand estate, it’s helpful to understand what types of properties are most in-demand. Check the MLS Listings for comparable homes so you’ll know which unique features of your property to point out to your Realtor®.

Price to consider condition. Listen to your real estate professional when he or she suggests an asking price, which may differ from your appraisal. If there is damage to the deck caused by chewing, for instance, either fix it or lower the price to account for future repairs. Likewise, if your home is in pristine condition, play that fact up in the description and market for a premium.

Remove Rover. Sorry, your dog (and you) don’t need to stick around when buyers are about. Not only will this create an uncomfortable encounter, but your dog’s barking, licking, or sniffing at ankles will ensure home viewers leave posthaste. If you can’t be home to remove your dog, hire a dog walker to come just before and return just after scheduled showings. Similarly, if you can group showings for a single weekend, consider boarding your dog for the days before and during the open house. Rover offers an extensive listing of day-time dog care providers if you can’t bear to be away from Benjie overnight. No matter what you do with your dog, always keep him well-groomed do reduce odors and shedding.

Set the stage. Lights, camera, action! It’s time to take photos of your listing and open the doors for the flurry of activity to come. But, how do you make your home look dog-free? That’s where the work comes in. You must keep it cleaner than ever and take steps to reduce clutter. That means you’ll have to clear all of your dog’s personal belongings (bed, toys, food, bowls, etc.) whenever buyers are expected. Toss them in the trunk of your car or stash discreetly in an out-of-the-way room, attic, or garage. After you’ve scoured the house from floor to ceiling, make sure to give your dog plenty of exercise so his pent up energy doesn’t turn into destructive tendencies. Rincon Hill Dog Park is a great place to let Sammy blow off some steam. (You might also want to stop by dog-friendly Holy Water Bar to blow off your own steam while you’re out!)

Make improvements. Whether you realize it or not, your dog’s presence has made a mark on your property. He’s scratched at the door, nibbled bare spots in the carpet, and dug holes in the yard. Take the time to make improvements that hide the evidence of Axel's aggression or Chopper’s chewing habit. Hire an animal behaviorist, which may be less expensive than losses associated with pet damage, if problems persist.

Eradicate odor. Your pet has left behind more than stray toys and squished up kibbles on the kitchen floor. Every room of your home, and especially those he frequents most, are likely ripe with olfactory indications of your playful pooch. Shampoo the carpets, open the windows, and Febreze soft surfaces at least an hour before guests arrive to offset Spot’s scent.

Remember, as much as you love your dog, not everyone shares the same sentiment. Keep it clean and convince your buyers that the only ones in the home have two legs and walk upright. You’ll see a “sold” sign in no time and can begin your own house hunt. 

Thanks to Medina James at dogetiquette.info for this article