Selling a Home with Pets or Kids: Real-World Strategies from Shaina
Selling a home while living with kids, pets, or both can feel like managing a full-time job on top of everything else. Toys, pet hair, nap schedules, and last-minute showings often collide, leaving sellers stressed and overwhelmed. Shaina McAndrews specializes in creating practical, real-world systems for Montgomery County families so they can list their home without feeling like their lives are on hold.
Building a “show-ready in minutes” plan
Perfectly staged 24/7 is not realistic for most families, so Shaina helps clients build a quick-reset plan for showings. This often includes designated bins or baskets for last-minute toy sweeps, a habit of keeping key surfaces clear, and a simple checklist for lights, blinds, and trash before leaving. With a clear routine, families can get their home presentable in a short window without feeling panicked every time an appointment pops up.
Managing pet odors, hair, and stress
Pets are part of the family, but strong odors or visible pet-related damage can turn buyers off quickly. Shaina recommends targeted steps like deep cleaning, air filters, and addressing any noticeable wear on floors or doors before photos and showings. She also works with sellers to plan where pets will go during showings—perhaps a trusted neighbor, daycare, or car ride with the family—so buyers can tour the home comfortably and safely.
Creating kid-friendly showing schedules
Nap times, homework, sports, and early bedtimes make it hard to open the doors at every possible hour. Shaina balances buyer access with family routines by helping set realistic showing windows that work most days of the week. She coordinates with buyer agents to group showings when possible, reducing disruption and helping families maintain a sense of normalcy.
Simplifying daily life with smart staging
Instead of staging that feels untouchable, Shaina focuses on family-friendly adjustments that look good and still function day to day. This might mean editing down toys and visual clutter, rearranging furniture for better flow, and creating one or two “catch-all” zones that stay out of main sightlines. The result is a home that photographs and shows well without making daily life impossible.
If you’re a Montgomery County homeowner wondering how to sell without turning your family’s routine upside down, request a personalized prep plan and valuation through Shaina’s CloudCMA link.
