Understanding the Importance of Managing Pets and Children During Showings
When youre preparing your home for showings or open houses, its easy to focus on cleaning and staging. But if you have pets or children, their presence can have a big impact on how buyers feel about your space. Here’s why it’s essential to thoughtfully manage both during these critical moments:
Why Pets and Children Matter During Home Showings
Buyers need to envision themselves living in your home. Unexpected distractions—like barking dogs, roaming cats, or toys scattered everywhere—can make it harder for them to connect with the property. Plus, there are important safety and comfort factors to consider for everyone involved.
Key Reasons to Manage Pets and Kids
| Reason | Impact on Buyers | Impact on Showings |
|---|---|---|
| First Impressions | Makes your home appear organized and welcoming | Helps buyers feel comfortable exploring every room |
| Safety Concerns | Prevents accidental trips, bites, or allergic reactions | Avoids stressful situations for kids, pets, and visitors |
| Minimizing Distractions | Keeps buyers focused on the features of your home, not distractions | Makes showings smoother and more effective |
| Cleanliness & Comfort | No pet odors or clutter from toys means a fresher atmosphere | Ensures all areas are accessible and inviting |
The Bottom Line: Creating a Welcoming Environment
Your goal is to help potential buyers imagine themselves at home. By proactively managing pets and children, you create an environment where visitors feel safe, relaxed, and able to appreciate all that your property has to offer. This simple step can make a world of difference in how quickly your house sells—and at what price.
2. Preparing Your Home: Tips for Securing Pets
When it’s time to show your home or host an open house, making sure your pets are safe and comfortable is just as important as cleaning and staging. Not everyone is a pet lover, and some visitors may have allergies or fears. Plus, pets can easily get stressed out with strangers walking through their territory. Here are some practical ways to keep your furry friends secure and happy while helping your showings go smoothly.
Boarding Your Pets
If possible, consider boarding your pets at a local kennel or daycare for the day. This option keeps them completely out of the house, ensuring there’s no risk of escape or accidental run-ins with visitors. It also gives you peace of mind knowing they’re being cared for by professionals.
Pros and Cons of Pet Boarding
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No distractions during showings Reduces stress for pets Professional supervision |
May be costly Some pets don’t adjust well to new environments |
Taking Pets for a Walk or Drive
If boarding isn’t ideal, try scheduling showings when you can take your pets out for a walk or a drive. This temporary solution keeps them away from the house during busy periods and offers them some quality time with you. It’s especially helpful for dogs who enjoy getting outside and burning off energy.
Using Pet-Friendly Containment Solutions
For those times when you can’t remove your pets from the home, use containment solutions like crates, playpens, or gated rooms. Make sure these areas are comfortable and include their favorite toys, bedding, and water. Place them in a quiet part of the house where foot traffic will be minimal during the showing.
Pet Containment Options at a Glance
| Containment Method | Best For | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Crate/Carrier | Cats, small dogs Nervous pets needing extra security |
Add familiar blankets/toys Place in quiet room |
| Playpen/Baby Gate | Puppies, active dogs Larger rooms or open spaces |
Ensure area is pet-proofed Keep food/water accessible |
| Closed Room | Cats, older dogs Pets used to certain rooms |
Leave sign on door Avoid high-traffic spaces |
Minimizing Stress for Pets and Visitors
No matter which method you choose, always check that your pet is comfortable before leaving them secured. Let agents know about any pets on-site so they can inform potential buyers in advance. By taking these simple steps, you’ll make the showing experience more pleasant for everyone involved—including your four-legged family members.
3. Keeping Kids Entertained and Out of the Way
When showing your home, its important to make sure children are safe, comfortable, and not a distraction for potential buyers. Here are some practical tips for keeping kids entertained or off-site during showings and open houses:
Options for Occupying Children During Showings
| Strategy | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Off-Site Activities | Take kids to a park, library, or friend’s house while your home is being shown. | Longer showings or open houses |
| Screen Time Rewards | Allow kids extra screen time with a favorite movie or game in a quiet room. | Short notice or quick showings |
| Activity Kits | Create special “showing day” kits with coloring books, puzzles, or crafts. | Younger children who need distraction |
| Babysitter or Family Help | Arrange for a babysitter or ask family to help out during the showing window. | Busy parents or multiple children |
| Outdoor Playdate | Set up a playdate outside the home with neighbors or classmates. | Mild weather days |
Safety First: Keeping Kids Secure
- Avoid leaving children unattended: Even if they’re in another room, always supervise younger kids.
- Remove toys and clutter: Make sure pathways are clear so buyers can walk around safely.
- Secure personal items: Store away favorite toys and electronics to prevent loss or damage.
- Create “off-limits” zones: If kids must stay at home, designate a single room where they can stay quietly during the showing.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
- If you have last-minute showings: Keep a go-bag ready with snacks, water, and entertainment for quick exits.
- If your child feels anxious about strangers in the house: Explain the process in simple terms and reassure them it’s temporary.
- If you work from home: Coordinate showing times when another adult can supervise the kids outside the house.
The Key Takeaway for Parents
The goal is to let potential buyers focus on your homes best features without interruptions. With some planning—whether you keep kids busy at home or take them elsewhere—you’ll create a welcoming environment for buyers while ensuring your family’s comfort and safety.
4. Communicating with Buyers’ Agents and Visitors
Why Clear Communication Matters
If you have pets or children at home, letting real estate agents and potential buyers know in advance can make home showings and open houses go much more smoothly. Clear communication helps avoid surprises and ensures everyone feels comfortable during the visit.
How to Share Information About Pets and Kids
Before a showing, talk to your real estate agent about your family situation. Give them details about your pets and kids, so they can let visitors know what to expect. You can also use simple signs or notes inside your home to remind guests of any special instructions, like “Please don’t open this door—cat inside!”
Common Ways to Communicate
| Method | What to Include | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Email or Text Message | Type of pet, child’s age, any rules (e.g., “Dog will be in backyard. Please keep gate closed.”) | Before every showing or open house |
| Sign on Door/Room | Quick reminders (“Baby napping. Please be quiet.” or “Don’t let the cat out.”) | On showing day, at key spots in the home |
| Agent-to-Agent Notes | Special needs (“Allergy alert: Dog lives here” or “Toys in playroom—watch your step”) | When confirming appointments with buyers’ agents |
Tips for Making Everyone Comfortable
- Be honest about your pets and children. If you have an energetic dog or a toddler, share this with agents.
- Mention allergies if you have pets, so buyers with sensitivities are aware before visiting.
- If possible, remove pets from the home during showings, but always communicate their usual habits or hiding spots.
- If kids will be home, let visitors know how they’ll be kept safe and out of the way.
- Ask your agent to remind visitors to close doors behind them and follow your household rules.
Sample Message for Agents or Visitors
Email Example:
Hello! Just a quick note—our friendly golden retriever will be in the backyard during your visit. Please make sure the gate stays closed. We also have a toddler who may be napping in the upstairs bedroom. Thank you for understanding!
5. Cleaning Up: Managing Messes and Allergens
When preparing your home for showings or open houses, keeping things clean and allergen-free is key to making a great first impression. Buyers often notice even small messes, pet hair, or lingering odors, so it’s important to address these issues ahead of time. Here’s how you can easily manage the common messes and allergens that come with pets and children, ensuring your home feels neutral and inviting to every visitor.
Dealing With Pet Hair and Odors
Pet hair and smells can be a big turn-off for potential buyers, especially those with allergies. Follow these simple tips:
| Task | Quick Tips |
|---|---|
| Vacuum Carpets & Furniture | Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture dander and fur. |
| Launder Pet Bedding | Wash pet beds, blankets, and toys before every showing. |
| Air Out the House | Open windows for at least 15 minutes to refresh the air. |
| Use Air Purifiers | Place purifiers in main rooms to help reduce allergens. |
| Spot Clean Accidents | Treat any stains or accidents immediately with enzymatic cleaners. |
| Remove Litter Boxes/Cages Temporarily | If possible, relocate them out of sight for the duration of showings. |
Tidying Up Kid Clutter and Toys
Kid stuff can make a space feel lived-in, but too many toys or crafts may distract buyers. Aim to declutter without erasing all signs of family life:
- Pack away most toys, leaving just one or two neatly organized items in each room.
- Store art supplies, games, and books in labeled bins or baskets out of sight.
- Remove drawings or stickers from walls, doors, and appliances.
- Wipe down surfaces sticky with fingerprints or food spills.
- Create a “showing bin” where last-minute clutter can be tossed quickly before buyers arrive.
Creating a Neutral Space Buyers Love
The goal is to present your home as a welcoming blank slate. Here are some easy steps:
- Avoid strong-smelling cleaning products; opt for unscented or lightly scented options.
- Add fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit for an inviting touch without overwhelming scents.
- Minimize personal items—think family photos or personalized decor—to help buyers picture themselves living there.
- Keep pet food bowls, leashes, and kid shoes tucked away in closets or cabinets.
A Simple Cleaning Checklist Before Each Showing
| Area | To-Do List |
|---|---|
| Living Room & Bedrooms | Vacuum floors and furniture, tidy up toys, fluff pillows |
| Kitchen & Dining Area | Wipe counters, remove high chairs/booster seats if possible, put away snacks/pet food bowls |
| Bathrooms | Sweep floors, wipe down sinks/counters, remove bath toys |
| Entryway/Mudroom | Cue up shoes/coats/backpacks in closets or storage benches |
The Bottom Line on Cleanliness During Showings
A spotless home free from obvious pet and kid mess will help buyers focus on what your property has to offer—not what needs cleaning. Keeping up with these small tasks makes your home stand out as well-cared-for and move-in ready!
