Selling a Home in Fort Lauderdale with Kids or Pets: Stress-Free Tips

by Melissa Carbonell

Worried about selling your Fort Lauderdale home with kids or pets in tow?

You’re not alone. Showing your home while managing family routines (and furry friends) can feel like a juggling act. But with the right plan, you can minimize stress, keep your home show-ready, and attract the right buyers—whether you’re in family-friendly Victoria Park or another Fort Lauderdale neighborhood.

🏡 Why Selling With Kids or Pets Requires Extra Planning

Potential buyers want to imagine themselves in your home—not your kids’ toys scattered across the floor or your pet’s bed in the living room. A little extra effort goes a long way toward making your home appeal to a wider audience.

🧸 1. Declutter & Depersonalize Family Spaces

Tidy Up Toys Daily: Use stylish bins or baskets for quick cleanups.
Remove Personal Photos: Help buyers picture their family in the home.
Minimize Pet Items: Hide litter boxes, bowls, and scratching posts during showings.

🐶 2. Manage Pets During Showings

Take Pets Out: Arrange for them to be with a friend, at doggy daycare, or on a walk during showings.
Neutralize Pet Odors: Clean carpets, wash pet bedding, and use air purifiers.
Repair Pet Damage: Fix scratched doors, chewed baseboards, or torn screens.

🗓️ 3. Work Around Family Schedules

Set Showing Windows: Work with your agent to schedule showings during school hours, nap times, or weekends away.
Have a “Go Bag” Ready: Keep essentials packed so you can leave quickly when a buyer wants to tour your home.

🌟 4. Stage Kid-Friendly but Buyer-Ready Spaces

In Victoria Park and Fort Lauderdale, many buyers are families. Consider staging a child’s room or play area neatly to showcase the home’s potential for family life—without overwhelming them with clutter.

📍 Fort Lauderdale-Specific Tips

Take advantage of parks: Plan outings to nearby spots like Holiday Park or the beach during showings.
Use local pet resources: Groomers, dog parks, and boarding facilities abound in Fort Lauderdale for short-term pet care.

🌸 Melissa Carbonell’s Pro Tip

"I always remind my clients: a home with kids or pets can still shine. It’s all about preparation and having a REALTOR who understands your lifestyle."

Melissa works closely with Fort Lauderdale families to create a selling strategy that fits their needs and keeps stress levels low.

💬 Ready to Sell Without the Stress?

If you’re thinking about selling your Fort Lauderdale home and wondering how to manage showings with kids or pets, Melissa Carbonell, REALTOR, is here to help. Her family-friendly approach ensures your home sells quickly—and for top dollar.

📞 Call Melissa today for a customized plan that works for your family.