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Buying or selling a home is serious business, and it can be overwhelming at times due to all the details and stress that come along with the process. Figuring out how to stage your home to get the maximum price, keeping things clean for buyers, looking for the perfect house to accommodate your family…it’s pretty labor intensive. When you have a pet, several more tasks get added to your to-do list, including keeping the yard clean and making sure there are no pet odors that might turn away a prospective buyer. You also have to figure out a way to keep your pet safe and happy–and out of the way–during the process of buying or selling a home, which is sometimes easier said than done.

Fortunately, there are several simple things you can do to make sure your dog minds his manners and keeps your home ready to sell. Having a plan is half the battle, so recruit some friends or family members to help you get through this time and ensure your pet is well taken care of.

Here are some of the best ways to get started.

Train your dog

A well-trained dog will know not to jump up on visitors or use the carpet as his personal toilet. Even if your dog is fairly well behaved, it’s not a bad idea to brush up on some simple commands and go over the potty rules, because animals know when there are changes happening, and sometimes it can make them anxious or change their behavior. Having strangers come into your home can also take a toll on your dog.

Consider what’s best for your pet; would he do well with a private trainer, or is he a good enough listener that you can feel confident teaching him yourself? There are many simple things you can teach your dog with a little guidance. For additional tips on training your dog, check out this guide.

Keep him away from strangers

When selling your home, you’ll likely have a lot of strangers coming through to take a look at it. It’s a good idea to have a kennel or crate for your dog to rest in–preferably in a back room or in the yard–during these times or have a friend or family member take him for a long walk. Sometimes, the realtor might not be able to give you much notice when a prospective buyer is ready to make a call; if this is the case, having a well-trained pet who knows not to jump up on guests, nip at their fingers, or bark excessively will be a wonderful thing. If he’s not quite there yet, put his collar and leash on so you can keep him at bay, or ask the realtor to go ahead and give the tour while you take the dog outside.

If you’re looking to buy a home, ensuring your pet has good manners is still a good idea. Sometimes, you may be out with your dog when you spot an open house. Taking him home before going in is the best idea, but if that’s not possible, be sure the owners know you have a pet with you and ask to make a private appointment if they aren’t comfortable with you bringing him into the home.

Find the right movers

Moving day involves a lot of potential risks – your stuff getting lost or broken, for example. Add your pup to the mix, and it’s easy to see why choosing the right movers is so important. It’s vital that you choose your moving company carefully with the factors most important to you in mind: scour options online to find the company with positive reviews, fair prices and that are dog-friendly. Some websites offer side-by-side comparisons for local moving companies, but it may be best to pick up the phone and make some calls to ensure you get all the answers you’re looking for.

You’ll also want to make sure that, on the big day, your dog is kept safe in his cage for a little while so he doesn’t get lost in the hustle and bustle of the move, or you could even hire someone to take him for a long walk (Click here to find dog walkers in your area). Let your helpers meet your dog so he won’t be upset at their presence, and also so they know what he looks like in case he does get out accidentally.

Moving can be an ordeal, but if you have a plan and are prepared, it will go smoothly. Just remember to take your dog’s feelings into consideration where the move is concerned, and give him lots of love and attention during this time.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in San Diego, contact the McT Real Estate Group(true dog lovers and moms to several) at 619-818-8122.