WELCOME TO THE CRINGE

by Sr. Staff Writer & Graphic Designer,Melanie Robitaille

Imagine entering a listing and someone yelling, “who the F is there?” You try explaining that you’re the real estate agent there to show the home, only to be told to “get the F out!” The voice sounds off, so you round the corner to realize it’s just a bird in a cage, and just someone’s idea of a funny party trick.

What about if you were showing a property with instructions to “keep the cat in,” only to have your client accidentally let it out while opening the door. You chase after it to no avail, make the dreaded call to the seller’s agent and thankfully learn it was actually one of two cats allowed to be let out. These are a couple of close calls that Franchisee, Kim Smiley Wiley of EXIT Realty Strategies in Ontario, has admittedly had with pets while on the job.

With the pet population in Canada estimated to surpass 28.5 million by 2025, and surveys showing there are some 86.9 million pet owners in the United States, it’s evident why these beloved family members should be of great concern when it comes to both purchasing and showing real estate. After moments like these, Kim definitely approaches homes with animals a bit differently now. It also begs the question, is having pets removed from the premises a best practice for showings and open houses and why?

THE HEART OF THE MATTER

What’s in the best interest of the client is typically the real estate rule of thumb, so clear communication and information about pets is paramount in the transaction process. However, it’s when those best interests clash, or the safety and well-being of an animal is compromised that can cause problems. The more informed everyone is who is part of the process, the better expectations can be managed, needs can be met, and issues can be avoided. Simply being cautious and conscious when opening a door just isn’t enough.

IMPORTANT LESSONS

-Know your liabilities up front when it comes to pets and disclose all risks to buyers and sellers

-Only pets with their own tank or cage should be left on premises and visitors instructed not to engage

-Make asking about pets a priority on paperwork and in communications so everyone knows what to expect

-Many people have animal allergies or fears – know your clients’ needs before you show

-Having a pet on premises may deter some buyers, but knowing a home is pet-friendly may attract others

-A dust/allergen mitigation service or duct cleaner is a good idea for those with allergies

-Beware of showings with heavy air freshener scents which could be masking other pet odors

Have a cringe-worthy moment that you think others could learn from? We’d love to hear about it. Email details along with your name and contact information to achiever@exitrealty.com today.