Paws, Playdates & Open Houses: How to Handle Showings with Kids and Pets in Tow!
You’ve cleaned and staged, and your agent just texted “Showing at 3!” While that might sound like great news, the first thing that usually comes ot mind for most sellers is what to do with the kids and dog. Home showings are stressful enough without a toddler tantrum in the hallway or your dog barking at potential buyers.
The good news? With a little planning, showings can be smooth, stress-free, and even a little fun for the whole family.
Where Should Fido Go When Buyers Come to Look?
As lovable as our pets are, not every homebuyer sees a wagging tail and thinks “dream home.” Some visitors may have allergies, a fear of dogs, or just don’t want to be greeted with a chorus of barking. If possible, take your dog for a walk, schedule a quick trip to the dog park, or set up a cozy playdate with a pet-loving friend. Doggie daycare can also be a smart option during high-traffic showing days. Not only does it keep your pet happy and safe, but it keeps your house quiet and welcoming.
Bonus: A tired dog is a good dog, meaning fewer accidents or surprises when you return home.
Can You Really “Hide” Kids During a Showing?
We love our little ones, but let’s be honest, they aren’t always the best at staying quiet, clean, or calm during a walkthrough. The truth is, buyers need to be able to imagine their own family living in the space, and distractions can take away from the experience (no matter how adorable). Planning short outings during showings, like a trip to the park, a library storytime, or a drive-thru treat run, can make the process smoother. Keep a “showing bag” packed with snacks, small games, coloring books, and wipes so that you are never caught off guard when a last-minute tour pops up.
Is Your Car the Secret Weapon During Showings?
When you are juggling showings and kids, pets, or both, your car quickly becomes your on-the-go headquarters. Store a small tote in the trunk with essentials like dog supplies, hand sanitizer, toys, extra diapers or clothes, and emergency snacks, lots of snacks. This mobile prep station can save you from last-minute panic and make the wait more bearable for everyone involved. Whether you are cruising around the neighborhood or parked at the playground, being organized helps you stay one step ahead of the chaos.
Do Buyers Really Notice the “Kid and Pet Clutter”?
That half-chewed squeaky toy, the army of tiny dinosaurs, or the overflowing diaper pail might be part of everyday life for you, but for potential buyers, it’s visual clutter. Before every showing, do a quick scan of each room: tuck away pet bowls, stow toys in baskets or bins, and make sure the space smells clean. First impressions matter, and creating a clean, neutral canvas helps buyers focus on your home’s potential, not the family circus that you are temporarily living in.
Can Showings Be a Family-Friendly Process?
With a little creativity and a flexible mindset, they definitely can be. Get the kids involved by giving them simple “jobs” like wiping down counters, fluffing pillows, or helping walk the dog before showings. Turning it into a mini mission can make them feel like part of the process, and teamwork makes everything a little more fun. Over time, these small efforts can even become routines that help reduce show-day stress for everyone in the house.
Final Thought: Can Kids and Pets Be Part of a Successful Sale?
Both kids and pets can be part of a successful sale, and they don’t have to be an obstacle to showing success. With a smart plan, a stash of supplies, and a sense of humor, your showings can run smoothly without leaving your little crew frazzled. Buyers will appreciate walking into a calm, inviting space, and you will have peace of mind knowing your home and your family are both show-ready. So the next time your agent calls with a tour time, don’t sweat it, grab the leash, pack the snack bag, and hit the road like a real estate rockstar. You’ve got this!