When you decide to sell your home, there is a lot to think about, for example, decluttering, staging, repairs, photographs, showings, inspections and, eventually, moving day. But there is one member of the household who doesn’t understand any of it: your pet.
As a Realtor, I often remind my clients that selling a home can be stressful for pets. Their familiar surroundings begin to change, furniture moves, boxes appear and strangers start walking through their territory.
And then there are the doors.
Nugget Murphy recently enjoyed a “purrrfect” stay at the Happy Cat Hotel & Spa. (Submitted photo)
Beware of the Great Escape
During an open house, multiple people may be coming and going within a short period of time. A nervous cat who has never shown much interest in the front door may suddenly see an opportunity to make a run for it.
Even if your cat doesn’t escape, they may spend the entire open house hiding under a bed or in a closet.
The same concerns can arise during inspections, appraisals, contractor visits, and busy showing days. There may be unfamiliar people moving throughout the home, doors left open and plenty of activity that can make a pet anxious.
Bonsai. (Submitted photo)
A Local Option for Cat Owners
That’s why I was excited to learn about Happy Cat Hotel & Spa, a cat-exclusive hotel and spa located nearby in Fair Lawn. The Happy Cat Hotel offers private accommodations, enrichment and playtime, along with grooming services specifically designed for cats. For families going through a home sale, it can provide a safe and comfortable place for your cat during the busiest days of the process.
Consider a little feline getaway for:
- Open house weekend
- Inspection day
- Contractor or repair visits
- Professional photography
- A particularly busy showing schedule
- Moving day
You may not need to board your cat for the entire time your home is on the market. Sometimes having them somewhere safe for a few key days can make the process considerably easier.
Music City. (Submitted photo)
Think About Your Pet Before You List
Every cat is different. Some will happily sleep through a parade of strangers. Others will let you know very clearly that they are not pleased with your decision to sell their home!
Before listing, think about your pet’s personality and create a plan. Talk with your Realtor about when you’ll have the most activity and consider what will keep your pet safest and most comfortable. As Realtors, we spend a lot of time preparing a home for buyers. But it’s important to remember that our pets are part of the family, too.
Selling a home is a big transition. A little planning can make it easier on everyone—including the cat who was convinced the house belonged to them.
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