5 Spring Cleaning Tips When Selling a Home with Pets 

Struggling to get your home free of pet hair before selling? Maybe you share your home with a dog, a cat, and even a rabbit, and getting rid of their remnants seems like an impossible task. Don’t worry! Our tips, created in collaboration with the experts at Pet Valu, are here to help pet owners navigate the cleaning process when selling their homes. No matter how many furry companions you have!  

With our tips and tricks, you’ll be able to freshen up your space and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. From choosing the best cleaners to staying ahead of pet fur, you can keep your home spotless, smelling good, and ready for showings at a moment’s notice!

Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners  

Let’s face it, pet accidents happen, and when they do, your first instinct is probably to grab some paper towels, plus the nearest all-purpose cleaner. While that might seem sufficient, it often doesn’t fully eliminate the bacteria left behind, and the odours that linger long after the mess has been mopped up. If you have a pet that’s prone to frequent accidents (like puppies or older cats), it’s a good idea to invest in an enzyme-based cleaner.  

Unlike regular cleaners that often just mask the smell, enzyme cleaners break down the proteins in pet waste, helping to eliminate both the offending odor and its source – the bacteria. This is key to keeping your home smelling fresh, especially if it’s on the market!  

Boost Air Quality with a HEPA Filter 

Air filters became very popular during COVID, and they’ve stuck around for good reason. Today, they’re considered essential for maintaining a clean home. Air filters work by capturing airborne pollutants. Air purifying methods include physical barriers, absorption, and electrostatic attraction depending on your filter. The most recommended filter would be a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air filters), which is among the most effective on the market. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of airborne particles including dust, bacteria and pet dander.  

HEPA filters can also give your HVAC system a break by catching particles before they reach the main system. Some HEPA filters are even designed to be integrated directly into your home’s HVAC unit.  

During peak shedding seasons, it’s recommended to change your filters every one to two months to keep things running smoothly. If you’re preparing to sell your home, clean air can be just as important as clean floors. A HEPA filter can help reduce pet odors and allergens, creating a fresher, more attractive environment for potential buyers. 

Clean More Frequently with Multiple Pets 

Some people are perfectly happy with one dog. Others figure their pup needs a furry friend. Some might even dream of raising an entire litter. No judgment! Just make sure to check your local laws about how many pets (and what types) you’re allowed to have in your home.

Fun fact: In the Oak Bay neighbourhood in Victoria, you can be fined up to $100 for a noisy parrot! For a noisy parrot… For a noisy parrot…. You get the picture.  

No matter how many pets you have, or how exotic they may be, staying on top of shedding can be a full-time job. One helpful tip when you’re prepping your home to sell is to limit your pets’ access to certain areas of the house. That doesn’t mean confining them to a single room, but being strategic can make cleanup much easier. It also keeps your home ready to show.  

Pet hair and dander can accumulate quickly on soft surfaces like couches, rugs and curtains. If your pets do have access to these areas, make it a habit to vacuum frequently. Use lint rollers and spot clean as needed. Clean, fur-free furniture and fresh-smelling rooms will go a long way in helping potential buyers focus on your home’s best features, not on your pets’ presence. Experts recommend vacuuming twice a week if you have pets that shed. If your pet is a heavy shedder, daily vacuuming may be necessary.  

Reduce Shedding by Brushing Your Pet Regularly 

Being proactive and brushing your pet helps get ahead of shedding. You’ll get rid of all that loose hair before it even reaches the floor. Depending on your pet’s breed and coat type, grooming needs can vary significantly. Some pets require daily brushing, others weekly, and a few lucky homeowners may barely notice shedding at all. From long-haired cats and short-coated dogs to so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds (yes, they shed too!), pet hair is a common issue for pet owners looking to keep a clean home.  

In today’s competitive real estate market, first impressions matter to buyers who may not have pets themselves. A home that smells fresh, looks well-maintained, and is free of pet hair helps buyers see the value of your property. Staying on top of pet shedding is a small task that can make a big difference when selling your home. 

Prevent Muddy Paws from the Floor 

Spring can be a beautiful and messy time for pet owners. If you’re trying to keep your home looking clean while preparing for a noon showing, the last thing you want is muddy paw prints on your floors.  

Before letting your dog back inside after a run in the yard, use paw cleaning tools or even a damp towel to wipe their paws thoroughly. You can even take it a step further by teaching them to wipe their own paws at the door! With a bit of patience and training, you can create a designated spot by the door with a mat or towel. There, your dog can learn to wipe off their paws before coming inside. 

A cleaner home means fewer lingering smells, less visible dirt, and an overall more inviting environment for potential buyers. By staying on top of these details, you’re also protecting your floors and increasing the chances of a quicker sale and maybe even a better offer. 

A Clean House is a Happy (And Sellable) House! 

These 5 essential spring cleaning tips when selling a home with pets are designed to make your home spotless and inviting. Buyers are not just looking at walls, windows and furnishings. They’re trying to feel a connection and vibe. The goal is for them to walk in, take a deep breath, and feel right at home. Pet dander, hair and odors can quickly turn that positive vibe into a negative one. This creates a barrier between your home and potential buyers.  

Your buyer pool is likely to come from a diverse background. For example, some may have allergies or asthma. For them, pet dander can be more than just an inconvenience. It can be a real health concern. If a potential buyer walks into a home filled with pet fur and lingering dander, their first impression will probably be less than ideal. Worse, if they’re serious about the property but struggle with allergens, they may decide they need a deep clean before even considering a move-in. This added hassle can cause delays in the sales process or push buyers to look elsewhere.  

The goal is to remove any potential obstacles to your sale. Whether that’s the lingering smell of pet accidents or the sight of fur on your furniture, a little attention on your part can make a big difference. Need further assistance? A REMAX agent can help answer your questions related to buying and selling a home with pets. Help yourself by helping your home stand out and encourage buyers to imagine themselves living there, pet-free or not. With these simple tips, you’ll ensure your home is buyer-friendly, giving you the best chance to make a quick and successful sale.

The way your home looks from the street—including the landscaping, paintwork, and overall vibe—signals to potential buyers what they might find inside. If the exterior looks neglected or outdated, buyers might not bother to check out the inside, even if it’s beautifully updated. A well-maintained exterior not only invites buyers to look further but also shapes their perception of the home’s value.

In the summer, the importance of curb appeal is even more pronounced. Natural light and greenery can show off your property at its best, making it stand out in a busy market. If you’re wondering how to upgrade your home’s curb appeal, simple touches like a tidy lawn, a fresh coat of paint, and some attractive outdoor furniture can create an inviting look. Since listing photos usually start with shots of the exterior, a good first photo can grab the attention of people browsing online and stop them from skipping your listing. By following these tips, you can boost the selling price and close a sale faster.

Why Curb Appeal Matters More Than You Think

It Pre-Sells the House Online Before Anyone Visits

These days, most buyers meet your home for the first time, not at the curb but on a screen. The first photo is almost always the exterior. That photo doesn’t just make the listing look tidy — it determines whether a buyer books a showing at all. A house with curb appeal often performs better online, generates more showings, and, in competitive markets, may even create a sense of scarcity. Curb appeal helps catch the attention of buyers who might otherwise scroll past.

It Signals That the Seller is Attentive and the Home is Well-Loved

When buyers look at the house, they are also subconsciously sizing up the kind of person who lived there. A home with a well-kept exterior quietly suggests that the sellers have cared for more than just the front yard. It hints at maintained plumbing, serviced heating systems, and roofs that haven’t been left to rot. In contrast, a home with a neglected exterior plants seeds of doubt. Buyers begin to wonder if this is what we can see, what about what we can’t?

It Creates a Sense of Belonging

Buyers are searching for a place that can feel like home. Good curb appeal helps them start imagining everyday life there, like pulling into the driveway after work, hanging a wreath on the garden gate at Christmas, and waving to neighbours on a sunny morning. That sense of familiarity and belonging is often what tips a buyer from interest to action, turning a showing into an offer.

It Affects Buyer Memory After the Viewing

Most sellers don’t realize that the first and last thing buyers will remember is not the kitchen or the bathroom but the approach and the departure. Buyers visit several homes in a short space of time. They may struggle to recall the width of the hallway, but they will know how they felt pulling up to and leaving the home. A house with charm lingers. It’s the one they circle back to later and say, the one with the pretty garden or the one that felt like home.

It Lowers Perceived “Mental Renovation Costs”

Even if buyers plan to change everything, including the garden, the paint, and the fence, they still want it to look fine now. A home with poor curb appeal doesn’t just look neglected — it mentally adds to the buyer’s “to-do” list, even if they were already planning renovations. A buyer may accept they’ll remodel the kitchen, but if the front garden looks like a project, too, it starts to feel overwhelming.

How to Upgrade Your Home’s Curb Appeal

With curb appeal playing such a quiet but powerful role in a sale, the next question is — what can be done to make a difference? Knowing how to upgrade your home’s curb appeal isn’t always about dramatic changes. Here are some practical ways to make sure the first impression is working in your favour.

Checking the Roofline and Eaves

Most sellers don’t even look up, but buyers do. Their eyes naturally scan the gutters, eaves, fascia boards, and roofline as part of their first impression. It’s worth taking the time to inspect these areas closely before listing. Clear out any debris from the gutters, tighten or replace sagging sections, and scrub away moss or algae that may have settled on the roof. A crisp, clean roofline and tidy eaves make the entire front of the home feel sharper and better cared for.

Landscaping for a Lush Look

Give your lawn the attention it needs to stay lush, green, and neatly trimmed. A well-maintained lawn not only looks appealing but is also a big draw for potential buyers. Use eco-friendly fertilizers and keep up with regular weeding and aerating to keep your lawn healthy. Installing a sprinkler system can be a big help during dry spells to keep your grass vibrant.

Plant a variety of seasonal flowers and decorative plants that will bloom in the summer to bring colour and life to your garden beds. For a more lasting solution, plant hardy perennials like coneflowers, hostas and daylilies. These plants can handle the tough Canadian winters and bloom again each summer, which means less replanting for you.

Adding fresh mulch can instantly tidy up your garden beds while helping to retain soil moisture—which is important for plant health. If any trees or bushes have overgrown, trim them back to brighten up your property and keep everything looking neat. Edging your lawn and pathways will sharpen the overall look of your outdoor space, making it more attractive and inviting.

Refreshing Paint and Exterior Details

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s exterior. Choose colours that complement your home’s style and the natural surroundings. Focus on high-impact areas such as the front door, shutters, and trim. These elements, when freshly painted, can dramatically improve the overall look of your property. Repair or replace any old, rusty, or malfunctioning hardware on doors and windows. The best time to paint is late spring through early fall when weather conditions are typically dry and mild. This helps the paint cure properly and provides the best long-term results. Make sure to properly prep the surfaces, including scraping off any peeling paint and applying a primer if necessary.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Summer is all about outdoor living, so showcasing functional and attractive outdoor spaces can significantly appeal to buyers. If you have a patio, deck, or porch, make sure it’s well-maintained and styled with comfortable seating and decor. Adding potted plants or hanging baskets can enhance the coziness and appeal of these areas. Consider setting up a BBQ area with a small outdoor dining set to help buyers imagine themselves enjoying summer evenings at the house. Stage the space with cushions, throws, and an outdoor rug for a welcoming look, and highlight any built-in features like outdoor kitchens or fire pits.

Lighting the Way

Proper lighting is key to enhancing your home’s curb appeal, especially for evening viewings. Install stylish and functional lighting along pathways, near the entrance, and around key features of your landscaping. Solar-powered lights are a great option for energy efficiency and easy installation. This not only ensures safety but also enhances the architectural features of your home at night. Choose lighting fixtures that complement the style of your home, use spotlights to highlight trees, sculptures, or water features, and ensure all exterior lights are working and replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Maintenance Musts

Keeping up with general maintenance shows potential buyers that the home is cared for. Power wash siding, walkways, and driveways to remove dirt and grime. Clean gutters and check downspouts. Address any minor repairs that could detract from your home’s value or cause concern during inspections. Focus on small details that could signal neglect, like cracked caulking or peeling paint. Repair or replace damaged window screens and door handles, and keep the roof clean and in good condition, as it’s often a major concern for buyers.

Understanding how to upgrade your home’s curb appeal means paying close attention to details and planning strategically. The aim is to make a strong first impression. Start these projects early so that by the time summer arrives, your home is ready to catch the eyes and win the hearts of those searching for their dream home.

Ready to sell your home this summer? With in-depth knowledge and resources, our REMAX agents are well-equipped to help you attract the right buyers and achieve the best possible price. Reach out today.

The statistics provided in this release are based on information from the ITSO MLS® System. Multiple MLS® Systems operate within Ontario, and while none can be guaranteed to include every property listed or sold within a given area, they effectively illustrate market trends.

WATERLOO REGION, ON (May 5, 2025) —In April, a total of 595 homes were sold in the Waterloo Region via the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) System of the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® (Cornerstone). This represents a 14.1 per cent decrease compared to the same period last year and a decline of 26.7 per cent compared to the average number of homes sold in the previous ten years for the same month. 

“Home sales in April showed typical seasonal improvement over March, but remained notably below the ten-year average,” says Christal Moura, spokesperson for the Waterloo Region market. “What we’re seeing is a clear market rebalancing, with inventory levels up 75% above the ten-year average and nearly four months of supply across all property types. This shift is creating more opportunities for buyers who now have more time for due diligence and negotiations, while sellers are adapting to a market that demands strategic pricing and patience. Waterloo Region’s strong economic fundamentals continue to support overall market stability, even as we move away from the intense seller’s market of recent years.” 

Total residential sales in April included 356 detached homes (down 12.5 per cent from April 2024), and 109 townhouses (down 19.9 per cent). Sales also included 71 condominium units (down 22.8 per cent) and 59 semi-detached homes (up 5.4 per cent).  

In April, the average sale price for all residential properties in Waterloo Region was $789,639. This represents a 1.7 per cent decrease compared to April 2024 and a 2.7 per cent increase compared to March 2025.  

• The average price of a detached home was $927,591. This represents a 1.7 per cent decrease from April 2024 and an increase of 0.9 per cent compared to March 2025.
• The average sale price for a townhouse was $615,982. This represents a 7.0 per cent decrease from April 2024 and a decrease of 0.2 per cent compared to March 2025.  
• The average sale price for an apartment-style condominium was $473,079. This is on par with April 2024 and an increase of 3.5 per cent compared to March 2025.  
• The average sale price for a semi was $659,017.  This represents a decrease of 0.7 per cent compared to April 2024 and a decrease of 0.6 per cent compared to March 2025. 

Average Sale Price – Monthly

CORNERSTONE cautions that average sale price information can help establish long-term trends but does not indicate specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) provides the best way to gauge price trends because averages are strongly distorted by changes in the mix of sales activity from one month to the next.

There were 1,371 new listings added to the MLS® System in Waterloo Region last month, a decrease of 4.9 per cent compared to April last year and a 10.5 per cent increase compared to the previous ten-year average for April.  

The total number of homes available for sale in active status at the end of April was 1,936, an increase of 39.5 per cent compared to April of last year and 75.3 per cent above the previous ten-year average of 1,105 listings for April. 

The total inventory across the market increased by 52.0 percent, resulting in a 3.8-month supply of all property types by the end of April. Condominium apartments had the highest inventory, with 8.0 months’ supply, followed by townhouses with 4.9 months’ supply and detached homes with 2.89 months’ supply. The number of months of inventory represents the time it would take to sell all current inventories at the current sales rate. 

The average time to sell a home in April was 24 days, compared to 27 days in the previous month. In April 2024, it took 18 days for a home to sell, and the five-year average was 14 days. 

“For those concerned about current market conditions, it’s important to remember that Waterloo Region remains one of Ontario’s most dynamic economic hubs, supported by our diverse employment base in tech, manufacturing, education, and healthcare,” says Moura. “My advice is to work closely with a REALTOR® who understands these shifting dynamics, focus on your long-term housing needs, and remember that real estate has historically proven to be a sound long-term investment in our region.” 

View our HPI tool here to learn more: https://www.cornerstone.inc/stats/

Click on any of the graphs below for an interactive view.

Average Sales Price – Municipality

Average Sales Price – Township

Monthly Sales By Property Type

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale

Monthly Supply of Homes for Sale – By Property Type

Monthly Median Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Sales Price – By Property Type

Monthly Average Days on Market

Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® cautions that average sale price information can help identify long-term trends but should not be to indicate that specific properties have increased or decreased in value. The average sale price is calculated based on the total dollar volume of all properties sold. Months Supply is the inventory of homes for sale at the end of a given month, divided by the average monthly closed sales from the last 12 months. Those requiring specific information on property values should contact a Waterloo Region REALTOR®. REALTORS® have their fingers on the pulse of the market. They know the questions to ask, the areas to probe and what to look for so that you get a complete picture of the property and community you’re considering.

Media Contact: Tania Benninger, COO, 519-576-1400

ABOUT CORNERSTONE

Cornerstone was formed on July 1, 2024, to better serve and represent REALTORS® in the markets of Mississauga, Burlington, Hamilton, Waterloo Region, Niagara North, Haldimand County, Norfolk County, and surrounding areas. With over 8,000 members, Cornerstone is Ontario’s second-largest REALTOR® association. Our mission is to lead with purpose, advocate boldly and create positive change for the success of our members. Cornerstone’s vision is to redefine the future of real estate through innovation and collaboration. 

More information at www.cornerstone.inc 

The trademarks REALTOR®, REALTORS®, and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA.

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.

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Easter Weekend Service Update 

Region of Waterloo (April 18–21, 2025)

Here’s what’s open and closed in the Region of Waterloo over the Easter long weekend:

🏢 Administrative Offices

• All Regional offices (99 Regina St. S., 150 Frederick St., 150 Main St., etc.) closed Friday and Monday

🧒 Home Child Care

• Licensed care may vary – check with your provider
• Offices closed Friday and Monday
• Urgent issues: call 519-575-4400 and ask for Home Child Care

✈️ Region of Waterloo International Airport

• Operations running as usual
• Administration offices closed

📚 Libraries

• All branches closed Friday, Sunday, and Monday
• Visit rwlibrary.ca for details

🏛️ Museums

• Open Friday–Monday (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.): Ken Seiling Museum, Schneider Haus
• Open Friday–Sunday (12 p.m. – 4 p.m.): McDougall Cottage

👵 Seniors’ Services

• Sunnyside Home and Alzheimer Day Programs: closed Friday and Monday
• Sunnyside Wellness Centre: closed Friday, open Monday

🚛 Waste Management

• Curbside collection: Running as usual
• Sites in Cambridge and Waterloo: Closed Friday and Monday

🚌 Grand River Transit (GRT)

• Friday (Good Friday): Holiday service schedule
• Monday (Easter Monday): Regular weekday service
• Check grt.ca for route info

🔗 More info: Region of Waterloo News Release

Splitting Up? How Spousal Buyouts Work

Navigating the aftermath of a divorce or separation can be complicated at the best of times, but there are extra challenges when property is involved. A spousal buyout is a practical solution that allows one partner to retain ownership of the shared home without the need to sell. This approach maintains stability during a turbulent time and also simplifies the division of assets.

How Does a Spousal Buyout Work?

A spousal buyout is a financial arrangement commonly used during the separation or divorce process, where one partner purchases the other’s interest in a jointly owned property. This allows the buying partner to assume full ownership of the home, while the other partner receives financial compensation for their share.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. The first step involves determining the value of the home and the amount of equity each person holds. Equity is essentially the portion of the home’s value that is owned outright, without any mortgage debt.
2. Using tools like a spousal buyout calculator in Canada, the buying party can calculate how much they need to pay their partner to compensate for their share of the equity.
3. To finance the buyout, the purchasing partner may seek a spousal buyout mortgage. This type of mortgage can allow the buying party to finance up to 95% of the property’s appraised value, provided they meet the necessary qualifications. This is part of the mortgage purchase rules related to spousal buyouts.
4. A legally binding separation agreement is typically required. This agreement grants the legal framework necessary to execute the buyout.
5. Once the documentation is in place and financial arrangements are secured, the mortgage can be transferred solely to the buying partner, and the selling partner is paid the agreed-upon buyout amount.

Financial Considerations in a Spousal Buyout

Undertaking a spousal buyout involves several financial aspects that require careful evaluation to ensure fairness and feasibility. Knowing the current market value of the property is most important. An appraisal will determine how much equity is in the home. Typically, the buying partner must pay their ex-spouse an equivalent amount of their share of the home’s equity.

Using a spousal buyout calculator in Canada can streamline determining how much you need to finance the buyout. The calculator helps assess various scenarios, factoring in the property value, outstanding mortgage, and each partner’s share.

Most individuals opt for a spousal buyout mortgage, which allows them to borrow up to 95 percent of the home’s appraised value. This ensures the buying partner can raise enough capital to pay off their former partner and assume full ownership without depleting their savings.

Besides the mortgage, consider additional costs such as legal fees for processing the separation agreement and potential administrative charges related to transferring mortgage responsibilities solely to the buying partner. The interest rate and terms of the new mortgage can also impact long-term financial stability.

CMHC Spousal Buyout Program

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) supports a spousal buyout program in Ontario and across Canada specifically designed for divorcing couples. This initiative allows the buying party to refinance their mortgage up to 95 per cent of the property’s appraised value. Such a high loan-to-value ratio is particularly beneficial for partners who might not have substantial liquid assets to afford a buyout directly. The CMHC Spousal Buyout Program falls under the broader category of mortgage purchase rules, which facilitate the financing of buyouts without the need to sell the property outright.

To qualify for the CMHC Spousal Buyout Program, couples must have a legally binding separation agreement. This document lays the groundwork for executing the buyout legally.

Working your way through the complexities of a separation or divorce is undoubtedly challenging, particularly when it involves deciding the future of a shared home. If you’re contemplating a spousal buyout and need expert guidance, RE/MAX can help you evaluate your options and connect you with trusted professionals who understand the emotional and financial nuances involved.