Tips for Selling a Home With Kids or Pets
Tips for Selling a Home With Kids or Pets
By Steve
Introduction: Real Life, Real Challenges
Selling your home with kids or pets isn’t impossible—but let’s be honest, it adds a few layers of chaos. From surprise showings to pet odors to scattered toys, it takes a clear plan and a bit of flexibility. You want your home to show well, stay safe, and minimize stress on your family (fur babies included). Let’s break down how to make it happen.
Neighborhood Spotlights: Where Families Thrive in Dallas
If you're selling in Dallas, know this: buyers with families or pets are likely your future buyer too. Highlighting your location can be a big win.
Frisco: Known for top-rated schools and miles of parks. Great for buyers who want a family-first neighborhood.
McKinney: Historic charm, pet-friendly trails, and a strong sense of community.
Prosper: Quiet streets, large yards, and plenty of new construction homes appealing to growing families.
Plano: A favorite for working parents, with strong schools and proximity to major employers.
Tip: In your listing description, emphasize family- and pet-friendly features like fenced yards, mudrooms, nearby dog parks, or play areas.
Local Market Trends (Dallas-Fort Worth, 2024-2025)
As of mid-2025, homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are sitting on the market for an average of 34 days, down from 49 days in early 2024. Buyers remain active, especially in family-focused suburbs like Allen, Frisco, and Mansfield.
Average home price in DFW: $428,000 (Zillow, June 2025)
Top buyer segment: Millennial families with dual incomes and kids
Most searched features: home office, fenced yard, open floor plans
With inventory still tight, homes that show well—even with pets or kids—can sell quickly. But preparation is key.
Cost Breakdown: Prepping With Kids or Pets Adds a Few Extras
Here's what you might expect to spend:
Temporary Storage (Pods/U-Haul): $200-$400/month
Professional Cleaners: $150-$300 per visit
Odor Neutralizing Treatment: $100-$200
Pet Boarding During Showings: $25-$50/day per pet
Handyman Touch-Ups: $250-$500
These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re investments that help your home stand out from similar listings.
Builder & Community Insights
If you're moving into a new build, some builders in DFW cater directly to families with children and pets.
Highland Homes and Perry Homes often include mudrooms, built-in storage, and covered patios.
Communities like Windsong Ranch or Union Park include dog parks, splash pads, and event programming for all ages.
Planning to buy a new construction home? Tap into these resources:
Financing & Incentives
Selling and buying at the same time? Here’s what to keep in mind:
Bridge Loans: Help you buy before you sell
Buy Before You Sell Programs: Some agents and lenders offer programs for families needing space now
Builder Incentives: Many DFW builders still offer rate buydowns or closing cost credits through preferred lenders
Before listing, check your buying power:
Tips for Showing a Home With Kids or Pets
You won’t hear sugarcoating here. It’s tough—but doable. Here’s how:
1. Create a "Go Bag"
Keep a ready-to-go bag with snacks, toys, wipes, and essentials. When you get a showing request, you can leave quickly.
2. Store Excess Toys and Pet Supplies
Buyers don’t want to see chew toys and overflowing bins. Rent a small storage unit or tuck items into labeled bins.
3. Use Scent Strategically
Avoid air fresheners that scream "I'm hiding something." Opt for light, neutral scents or odor-neutralizing sprays designed for pet homes.
4. Set Up a Showing Schedule
Try to avoid last-minute chaos by blocking off windows of time each day. Your agent can set this up with a showing service.
5. Remove Pets During Showings
This one’s non-negotiable. Not everyone loves pets, and some have allergies. Use daycare, friends, or short walks to keep pets out of the house.
6. Declutter Like a Minimalist
Showings aren’t about showing off your lifestyle—they’re about helping the buyer see their life in your home. Keep it simple and distraction-free.
7. Deep Clean Regularly
Hire a cleaner weekly while on the market. Focus on carpets, pet areas, and high-touch kid zones.
Conclusion: Sell Smarter With a Plan
Selling a home with kids or pets can feel like juggling with one hand tied behind your back. But with a smart plan and the right resources, you can make it work—and even get top dollar.
Ready to list your home and start fresh?
Use these tools to help:
Or just take the first step and Download the Lone Star Living App now
You're Always Home With Refind Realty!
FAQs (Sourced from AlsoAsked & AnswerSocrates)
1. How do I prepare my home for sale with young kids?
Start by decluttering toys, using storage bins, and creating a daily cleaning routine. Set realistic showing expectations.
2. Should I remove pet items during showings?
Yes. Hide food bowls, crates, and litter boxes. Use odor neutralizers.
3. Can I stay in my home during showings?
It’s best to leave. If that’s not possible, step outside with the kids or pets to give buyers space.
4. Are buyers turned off by pets?
Sometimes. Especially if there's visible damage, odors, or allergy concerns. It’s best to remove pets during showings.
5. Should I repaint rooms with bright kid colors?
Neutral is better. Soft grays or whites help buyers picture their own style.
6. How can I stage a child’s bedroom?
Minimize decorations, remove names from walls, and make the space tidy and inviting.
7. How do I manage showings with a busy family schedule?
Use a showing window system and talk with your agent about blackout times that won’t disrupt nap schedules or meals.
