# Selling a House With Pets: How to Minimize Odors, Damage, and Buyer Concerns By Opendoor Editorial Team | 2017-10-10 > Follow these steps to ensure nothing gets in the way of selling your pet-friendly home for maximum value. ## Key Takeaways If you share your home with a four-legged family member, you're far from alone — roughly [67% of U.S. households own a pet](https://www.americanpetproducts.org/press-industry-trends), according to the American Pet Products Association. But when it's time to sell, the furry companions who make your house feel like home can also make it harder to close a deal. From lingering odors you may not even notice to scratched hardwood floors and chewed baseboards, pet evidence can quietly erode buyer interest and shrink your sale price. The good news: with the right preparation, selling a house with pets doesn't have to mean sacrificing value or spending months on the market. This guide walks you through how to sell your home with pets — including how to assess and repair pet damage, eliminate stubborn odors, stage your home to appeal to every buyer, and manage your animals during showings. Whether you have a 10-pound cat or a 100-pound Great Dane, these steps will help you [prepare your house for sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-sale) and maximize your return. > **Want to skip the showings entirely?** Selling directly to Opendoor means no open houses, no staging around pet schedules, and no last-minute scrambles to hide the litter box. [See how selling to Opendoor compares to a traditional home sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-selling-to-opendoor-compares-to-a-traditional-home-sale). [Get your offer](#) ## How Pets Can Affect Your Home Sale Before diving into the to-do list, it helps to understand *why* pet evidence matters so much to buyers. Knowing the stakes makes every cleaning session and repair feel worth the effort. ### Buyer Perception and Pet Allergies Put yourself in a buyer's shoes. They walk into a home and notice fur on the couch, scratches on the door frames, and a faint animal smell. Even if the house checks every other box, those signals trigger doubt: *What damage am I not seeing? How much will it cost to fix? Will the smell ever go away?* That doubt translates directly into lower offers — or no offers at all. If your listing is sitting without bites, pet evidence could be a [hidden reason your house isn't selling](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/cant-sell-my-house-why-its-happening-and-how-to-fix-it). Then there's the allergy factor. Approximately [10–20% of the global population is allergic to cats and dogs](https://aafa.org/allergies/types-of-allergies/pet-dog-cat-allergies/), according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Pet allergens are sticky proteins that embed themselves in carpet fibers, upholstery, HVAC ductwork, and even drywall. For allergy-sensitive buyers, walking into a home with significant pet allergen residue can cause immediate physical discomfort — and an immediate decision to walk away. Even buyers without allergies may worry about family members or future guests who are sensitive. The perception that a home is a "pet house" can narrow your buyer pool significantly. ### Common Ways Pets Impact Home Value Multiple [factors influence your home's value](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/factors-that-influence-home-value), and pet-related issues can touch several of them at once: - **Odor** — The single biggest deal-killer. Pet urine that has soaked into carpet padding or subflooring can produce a smell that resists standard cleaning. - **Physical damage** — Scratched floors, chewed trim, torn window screens, and stained carpets are all visible red flags during showings and [home inspections](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/briefs/what-do-home-inspectors-look-for). - **Allergen residue** — Dander and proteins trapped in HVAC systems and soft surfaces can affect indoor air quality long after the pet is gone. - **Yard condition** — Dead grass from urine spots, worn paths, holes from digging, and damaged fences all reduce curb appeal. - **Buyer perception** — Even minor evidence of pets can cause buyers to overestimate the true cost of "restoring" the home, leading to lowball offers or requests for [seller concessions](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/what-are-seller-concessions). The bottom line: addressing pet evidence isn't just about cleanliness — it's about protecting your home's perceived value and [what your home is actually worth](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/whats-your-home-worth-take-these-steps-to-find-out) on the open market. ## Assess and Repair Pet Damage Before Listing Pet damage when selling a home is one of the most overlooked issues sellers face — and one of the most costly to ignore. A buyer who spots scratched floors or chewed door frames will mentally start tallying repair costs, and their estimate is almost always higher than the actual fix. Addressing damage proactively is one of the [most important things to repair before selling a house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/things-to-repair-before-selling-a-house). Walk through every room with fresh eyes (or better yet, ask a friend without pets to do a walkthrough) and catalog every sign of pet wear. Then prioritize repairs based on visibility and cost-effectiveness. ### Scratched Hardwood Floors Scratched floors from pets are one of the most common issues sellers face, and they're often the first thing buyers notice. The repair approach depends on severity: - **Light surface scratches:** A simple **screen-and-recoat** (also called a buff-and-coat) refreshes the protective finish without sanding down to bare wood. Cost: **$1–$3 per square foot**. This is often all you need for normal pet wear and delivers strong ROI. - **Deep gouges or widespread damage:** Full **sanding and refinishing** removes the damaged wood layer and applies new stain and sealant. Cost: **$3–$8 per square foot**. Reserve this for floors with visible claw gouges or areas where the finish is completely worn through. - **Budget-friendly alternative:** If refinishing isn't in the budget, a **luxury vinyl plank (LVP) overlay** can be installed over existing hardwood for **$2–$5 per square foot** and gives the home a fresh, modern look. - **Staging trick:** Strategically placed area rugs can minimize the visual impact of scratched zones during showings while you decide on a permanent fix. **ROI tip:** Investing $500–$1,500 in floor repair can prevent $3,000–$5,000 in buyer-negotiated price reductions. Scratched floors are one of the first things [home appraisers notice](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/home-appraisal-tips-and-what-is-home-appraisal-based-on), too. ### Carpet Stains and Damage Pet stains on carpet — especially urine — are among the hardest issues to remediate because the damage often extends below the visible surface. - **Surface stains only:** Professional hot-water extraction (steam cleaning) costs **$100–$300** for a full home and can handle most surface-level stains. - **Stains with odor:** The carpet padding underneath likely absorbed the urine. In this case, you may need to **replace the padding** while keeping the carpet ($1–$2 per square foot for padding replacement). - **Severe or widespread damage:** Full carpet replacement runs **$3–$8 per square foot** installed. If you're replacing, consider choosing a neutral, mid-grade carpet — it doesn't need to be top-of-the-line, just clean and fresh. - **Cost-benefit decision:** If your carpet is older than 8–10 years and has pet damage, replacement almost always delivers a better return than repeated cleaning attempts. ### Chewed or Scratched Trim, Doors, and Baseboards Dogs and cats can do surprising damage to woodwork. Common issues include chewed door frames, scratched baseboards, damaged blinds, and gouged door corners. - **Minor scratches and dents:** Wood filler, sanding, and a fresh coat of paint can make trim look new for **under $50** in materials. - **Chewed sections:** If the damage is deep, it's often more cost-effective to **replace the individual trim piece** than try to rebuild it. Stock baseboards and door casing run **$1–$3 per linear foot** at most home improvement stores. - **Doors:** Hollow-core interior doors with significant chew damage should be replaced. Budget **$50–$150 per door** (uninstalled) for standard sizes. - **Blinds and window screens:** Bent or shredded blinds are inexpensive to replace (**$10–$40 per window**) but make a disproportionate impact on buyer impressions. Torn window screens are similarly cheap to fix and should be a priority. ### Yard and Fence Damage Outdoor damage is the first thing buyers see, and it directly impacts curb appeal — which sets the emotional tone for the entire showing. - **Urine spots and dead grass:** Rake out dead patches, add topsoil, and reseed or lay sod. For small areas, expect to spend **$50–$200**. Allow 4–6 weeks for seed to fill in, so start early. - **Digging holes:** Fill with topsoil, compact firmly, and reseed. For larger holes near foundations or fences, ensure proper grading to avoid drainage concerns a buyer or inspector might flag. - **Worn paths:** Dogs that patrol fence lines create visible trails. Overseeding and temporary fencing (to keep your dog off the new grass) can restore these areas before listing. - **Fence damage:** Chewed or scratched fence boards, bent chain-link sections, and loose gates should be repaired. Budget **$150–$500** for typical fence repairs. ### When to Disclose Pet Damage Most cosmetic pet damage — scratches, stains, normal wear — does not require formal disclosure. However, there are situations where disclosure may be legally or ethically necessary: - **Subfloor damage from urine:** If pet urine has soaked through carpet and padding into the subfloor, causing warping, mold, or structural weakening, this may need to be disclosed as a material defect. - **Flea or pest infestations:** Active or recent infestations tied to pets should generally be disclosed. - **State-specific rules:** Disclosure requirements vary by state. When in doubt, consult your real estate agent or attorney. Honest disclosure protects you from post-sale legal issues. The safest approach is to repair what you can and document what you've done. Buyers and inspectors are more reassured by evidence of proactive maintenance than by attempts to hide problems. ## Eliminate Pet Odors Throughout Your Home Pet odor when selling a house is the single most damaging issue you can face — more than scratches, stains, or visible damage. Odor is emotional and visceral. A buyer who smells pet odor in the first 30 seconds of a showing has already started deducting thousands from their mental offer. The challenge: if you've lived with pets for years, you're almost certainly **nose-blind** to the smell. Your brain has adapted to filter it out. What seems perfectly fresh to you may be immediately noticeable to a buyer walking in for the first time. > **Tip:** Before you invest in any cleaning, ask a friend or neighbor who doesn't own pets to do an honest "sniff test" of your home. Have them check every room, get close to carpets and upholstery, and pay attention to the HVAC output. Their feedback will tell you exactly where to focus. ### Identify Hidden Odor Sources Pet odor doesn't just live on the surface. It migrates into materials and systems throughout your home: - **Carpet padding:** Even if the carpet looks clean, urine and dander oils can saturate the padding underneath, creating a persistent smell that no amount of surface cleaning will fix. - **Subfloor:** In severe cases, urine penetrates through padding into the plywood or concrete subfloor. This requires sealing or replacement. - **HVAC ducts and filters:** Pet dander, fur, and odor particles circulate through your heating and cooling system and accumulate in ductwork. Every time the system runs, it redistributes the smell. - **Upholstery and drapes:** Fabric furniture, curtains, and decorative pillows absorb pet oils and dander over time. - **Walls and baseboards:** In homes with long-term pet residency, oils from pet fur can transfer to walls at pet height, creating subtle but persistent odor zones. Cat urine spray on walls is especially difficult to remove without treatment and repainting. ### DIY Pet Odor Removal Methods Start with these approaches before calling in professionals: - **Enzymatic cleaners:** Products like Nature's Miracle, Rocco & Roxie, or Anti-Icky Poo contain enzymes that break down the proteins in pet urine — not just masking the smell, but actually eliminating the source. Apply generously and allow proper dwell time per the product instructions. - **Baking soda treatment:** Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, upholstery, and mattresses. Let it sit for at least 8–12 hours (overnight is ideal), then vacuum thoroughly. Repeat as needed. - **White vinegar solution:** A 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water works well for hard surfaces, walls, and baseboards. The vinegar smell dissipates as it dries, taking pet odor with it. - **Steam cleaning:** Rent or buy a steam cleaner for carpets and upholstery. The high heat helps break down odor-causing residues. **Important:** Do not steam clean urine-stained areas without pre-treating with an enzymatic cleaner first — heat can set protein-based stains permanently. - **Wash everything fabric:** Curtains, throw pillows, pet beds, couch covers, blankets — if it's washable, wash it. If it's not washable and it smells, consider replacing it. - **Replace HVAC filters:** Swap in fresh, high-quality HEPA filters. This is a quick, inexpensive step (**$15–$40 per filter**) that immediately improves air quality. ### Professional Odor Removal Services If DIY methods aren't enough — or if you're dealing with deep-set urine odor — professional services may be necessary: - **Professional carpet cleaning:** Hot-water extraction by a certified company costs **$150–$400** for a full home and can address moderate odor issues. - **Duct cleaning:** Professional HVAC duct cleaning runs **$300–$500** and removes accumulated dander, fur, and odor particles from your ventilation system. Especially important in homes with long-term pets. - **Ozone treatment:** An ozone generator produces ozone gas that penetrates surfaces and neutralizes odor molecules at the source. This is a powerful option for severe pet odor. Cost: **$200–$600** per treatment. **Note:** The home must be unoccupied (including pets) during treatment and for several hours afterward. - **Subfloor sealing:** If urine has reached the subfloor, a professional can apply an odor-sealing primer (like Kilz or BIN shellac-based primer) before new flooring is installed. Cost: **$1–$2 per square foot** for the primer application. - **Full professional allergen treatment:** Companies specializing in allergen remediation can treat the entire home — surfaces, air systems, and fabrics — for **$500–$1,000+**. This may be worth the investment if you're marketing to a broad buyer pool. Understanding these costs in advance helps you budget for the full [cost of selling your house](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-a-house). ## Deep Clean to Remove All Evidence of Pets Beyond odor and damage, there's a layer of everyday pet evidence that buyers will notice — smudges, fur, dander residue, and wear patterns that signal "this was a pet household." Your goal is to remove every visual and tactile trace so that nothing distracts buyers from seeing the home's true potential. Think of this step as hiding the evidence of pets throughout every room. Even buyers who love animals don't want to inherit someone else's pet residue. ### Interior Cleaning Checklist Work through every room using this pet-specific checklist: - **Walls:** Wipe down all walls, especially at pet height (2–3 feet for dogs). Look for nose prints, slobber marks, and oil stains from fur. Use a mild degreasing cleaner. Repaint scuffed or stained sections — a fresh coat of neutral paint in high-traffic areas is one of the highest-ROI [improvements that increase home value](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/improvements-that-increase-home-value). - **Baseboards:** Vacuum and wipe every baseboard. Fur, dander, and dust accumulate here more than anywhere else. Touch up paint on scuffed or chewed areas. - **Windows and glass doors:** Clean nose prints and smudge marks from all glass surfaces, inside and out. Pay special attention to sliding glass doors and low windows. - **Light fixtures and ceiling fans:** Fur and dander collect on blades, globes, and fixtures. Dust and wipe every one. - **HVAC vents and registers:** Remove, vacuum, and wash all vent covers. Visible fur in vents is an immediate red flag for buyers with allergies. - **Hardwood and tile floors:** Mop with a pet-safe enzymatic floor cleaner, not just water. Pay attention to grout lines, which can absorb urine. - **Upholstered furniture:** If you're not removing furniture for staging, lint-roll and steam-clean every piece. Consider professional upholstery cleaning for couches and chairs. - **Closets and storage areas:** Buyers open closets. Remove any pet items stored inside and vacuum thoroughly — closets trap dander. - **Laundry areas:** Clean around and behind the washer/dryer, where pet fur accumulates heavily. ### Exterior Cleaning Checklist - **Front door and entryway:** Wipe down scratch marks on the door, clean the doormat (or replace it), and remove any pet-related items from the porch. - **Patio and deck:** Sweep thoroughly, remove pet toys and bowls, and power-wash surfaces that may have accumulated pet waste residue. - **Yard waste:** Do a thorough sweep for pet waste across the entire yard — front, back, and side areas. This sounds obvious, but missed waste during a showing is an instant mood-killer. - **Outdoor pet structures:** Remove dog houses, tie-out stakes, kennel panels, and dog runs. Fill any holes or worn areas where they sat. ## Tips for Selling a Home with Dogs Selling a home with dogs comes with specific challenges that go beyond general pet advice. Dogs tend to be larger, more active, and more destructive than other household pets, and they create issues that require targeted solutions. ### Address Dog-Specific Damage - **Scratches at doorways and gates:** Large-breed dogs often scratch at doors, baby gates, and door frames when excited. Inspect every interior and exterior door at scratch height and repair or repaint as needed. - **Worn carpet paths:** Dogs that follow the same route through your home — hallway to kitchen, back door to living room — create visible wear patterns in carpet. Professional carpet cleaning can reduce the appearance, but heavily worn paths may require patching or replacement. - **Slobber and nose marks:** Large, drooly breeds leave marks on walls, furniture, and windows that can be tough to see when you're used to them. Wipe all surfaces at and below counter height. - **Yard restoration:** Dogs create the most significant outdoor damage. Beyond filling holes and reseeding, consider: - Replacing damaged fence sections, especially where dogs have scratched, chewed, or pushed against the fence - Addressing worn trails along fence lines with fresh sod or mulch - Removing any "pet area" infrastructure (waste stations, dog doors in fences) and restoring those sections to a neutral state ### Manage Barking During Showings Barking is a concern even if your dog isn't in the home during showings. If your dog barks audibly from a neighbor's yard, a parked car, or through a shared wall (in condos or townhomes), it can affect how buyers perceive the neighborhood. - Coordinate with neighbors if your dog will be next door during showings. - If possible, take your dog to **doggy daycare, a friend's house, or a boarding facility** during showing windows. - For long listing periods, consider temporary arrangements with family members who live farther away. ### Consider Virtual Showings If your dog creates logistical complications — anxiety, aggression toward strangers, inability to be boarded — virtual or 3D showings allow buyers to tour the home without an in-person visit. Many buyers in 2026 are comfortable making decisions based on virtual tours, especially for initial screening. This can reduce the number of in-person showings you need to manage. ## Stage Your Home to Neutralize Pet Presence Staging is about helping buyers imagine *their* life in the space. Every visible pet item — beds, bowls, toys, crates, litter boxes, pet doors — pulls them out of that vision and into yours. ### Remove All Pet Items - **Pack away bowls, toys, beds, leashes, and crates.** Store them off-site if possible, or in a sealed container in the garage. - **Remove or disguise pet doors.** If your home has a dog door, consider temporarily sealing it and covering it with a panel or replacing the door entirely. Pet doors can concern buyers who worry about security or energy efficiency. - **Take down pet photos.** Just like family photos, pet photos make the space feel personal rather than neutral. - **Clean or replace pet-designated furniture.** If you have a "dog couch" or a cat tree, remove it. Any furniture that's visibly worn from pet use detracts from staging. ### Neutralize Scent with Staging-Friendly Options After deep cleaning and odor removal, add a neutral, light scent layer during showings: - Open windows for 30 minutes before a showing to circulate fresh air. - Use subtle diffusers with clean scents (linen, light citrus) — avoid heavy fragrances, which signal to buyers that you're masking something. - Bake cookies or brew coffee only if you genuinely want to — experienced buyers know this trick. ### Boost Curb Appeal Your yard should look like a home without pets has ever lived there. A freshly mowed lawn, trimmed hedges, and a clean walkway set the right first impression. If you've invested in yard restoration from dog damage, make sure the new growth is established before your listing photos are taken. Strong curb appeal is one of the key strategies for [selling your house fast](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-sell-your-house-fast-complete-guide). ## Manage Pets During Showings and Open Houses Even the friendliest pet can be a distraction — or worse, a liability — during showings. Your goal is to make the home feel pet-free during every visit. ### Showing Day Protocol 1. **Remove all pets from the home** at least 30 minutes before the first showing. This gives time for the air to settle and for any last-minute cleanup. 2. **Do a final walkthrough** after removing pets: check for fur on furniture, fresh nose prints on glass, litter box residue, or anything that moved since your deep clean. 3. **Vacuum high-traffic areas** one more time — a quick pass takes five minutes and catches fresh fur. 4. **Set out fresh HVAC filters** and run the system for 15–20 minutes before showings to circulate clean air. ### Where to Keep Pets During Showings - **Doggy daycare or boarding:** The most reliable option, especially during high-showing periods like the first weekend on market. - **A friend or family member's home:** Great for pets that are anxious in unfamiliar settings. - **Your car (short-term only):** Acceptable for quick, single showings in mild weather. Never leave pets in a car in warm conditions. - **A fenced yard with a note:** If the pet must stay on the property, secure them in a fenced area with a clear note on the showing instructions. This is a last resort — buyers may still hear barking or feel uncomfortable. **Do not** leave pets crated inside the home during showings. A crated, barking dog in a bedroom or garage creates stress for the pet, the buyer, and the buyer's agent. ### Skip the Showing Hassle Altogether Managing pets around a showing schedule is one of the most stressful parts of the traditional selling process. If you'd rather avoid it entirely, [selling your house for cash to Opendoor](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/sell-your-house-for-fast-cash-with-Opendoor) means no open houses, no staging emergencies, and no scrambling to get three dogs out the door on 30 minutes' notice. You can get an offer without a single stranger walking through your home. ## Final Pre-Listing Walkthrough: The Pet Evidence Audit Before your photographer arrives or your first showing is scheduled, do one final, comprehensive check: - \[ \] All pet items removed or stored off-site - \[ \] Every room sniff-tested by a non-pet-owner - \[ \] Hardwood floors repaired, cleaned, or covered - \[ \] Carpets professionally cleaned or replaced - \[ \] Walls wiped down and repainted where needed - \[ \] Windows and glass doors free of nose prints - \[ \] HVAC filters replaced; consider duct cleaning - \[ \] All exterior pet evidence removed (waste, toys, structures) - \[ \] Yard damage repaired and established - \[ \] Fences repaired and gates secured - \[ \] Showing-day pet plan in place and communicated to your agent - \[ \] Pet-related disclosure items discussed with your agent or attorney Taking these steps doesn't just prepare your home for the market — it positions you for a faster sale at a stronger price. Homes that show clean, fresh, and well-maintained attract better offers and spend fewer [days on market](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/why-days-on-market-matter). [Get your offer](#) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Does having pets decrease home value?** Pets don't directly affect your home's appraised value, but the damage and odor they leave behind can significantly impact buyer perception and offer prices. A home with visible pet damage and lingering odors may sell for thousands less than a comparable home without those issues. The key is addressing evidence of pets before listing. **Should I disclose that I had pets when selling my house?** Disclosure requirements vary by state. In most cases, you're not required to disclose pet ownership itself, but you may be required to disclose material defects caused by pets — such as subfloor damage from urine, mold growth, or pest infestations. Consult with your real estate agent or attorney to understand your local obligations. **How much does it cost to remove pet odor from a house?** Costs range widely depending on severity. DIY enzymatic cleaners and baking soda treatments may cost **$50–$100**. Professional carpet cleaning runs **$150–$400** for a full home. For severe odor, ozone treatment (**$200–$600**), duct cleaning (**$300–$500**), and subfloor sealing (**$1–$2 per square foot**) may be needed. Total professional remediation for a severely affected home could reach **$1,000–$2,500**. **Do I need to replace carpet before selling if I have pets?** Not always. If the carpet is in good condition with only surface-level stains, professional cleaning can restore it. However, if urine has soaked through to the padding, if there are visible tears or heavy wear patterns, or if the carpet is older than 8–10 years, replacement is usually the better investment. New carpet signals a fresh, well-maintained home and removes any lingering odor concerns. **Where should I keep my dog during home showings?** The best options are doggy daycare, boarding, or a friend or family member's home. For quick, single showings in mild weather, your car can work as a short-term solution. Avoid leaving dogs crated inside the home — barking and visible crates create a negative impression. Communicate your pet logistics plan with your agent so they can schedule showings with adequate lead time. **Can pet damage affect a home appraisal?** Yes. Appraisers assess the overall condition of your home, and visible pet damage — scratched floors, stained carpets, chewed trim, yard damage — can result in a lower condition rating. This may affect the [appraised value](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-long-does-an-appraisal-take) and, in turn, a buyer's ability to secure financing at your asking price. **How do I remove pet allergens from my home before selling?** Start by replacing all HVAC filters with HEPA-rated options and having your ducts professionally cleaned. Steam-clean all carpets, upholstery, and drapes. Wash walls and hard surfaces with a damp cloth to capture dander. For homes with long-term pet residency, a professional allergen remediation service can treat the entire home for **$500–$1,000+**. **What is the most cost-effective way to fix scratched hardwood floors from pets?** A screen-and-recoat (buff-and-coat) is typically the best value at **$1–$3 per square foot**. This process scuffs the existing finish and applies a fresh topcoat, hiding light scratches without full sanding. For deep gouges, spot-repair with wood filler before recoating. Full refinishing (**$3–$8 per square foot**) is only necessary for severe, widespread damage. **Is it better to sell my house as-is or fix pet damage first?** In almost every case, fixing pet damage before listing delivers a better net return. Buyers discount homes with visible damage far more than the actual repair cost. For example, $300 in floor repair might prevent $3,000 in negotiated price reductions. If repairs feel overwhelming, an alternative is to [request a cash offer](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/what-is-a-cash-offer-in-real-estate-and-why-consider-it), which can simplify the process for homes that need work. **How far in advance should I start preparing my pet-friendly home for sale?** Give yourself --- *Originally published at [https://www.opendoor.com/articles/steps-for-selling-a-home-with-pets](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/steps-for-selling-a-home-with-pets)*