Downsizing with a Pet. Tips to Avoid Being a Catastrophe
Now that you’ve decided to downsize, you might be a little worried about selling your home and moving with your pet in tow. Relax! Downsizing doesn’t have to be a catastrophe if you plan carefully and follow some simple tips from Pampered Pet Sitting
Financial Concerns with Downsizing
Your first step is to set up your finances. Begin by calculating your ideal mortgage payment to determine the price range for your new home. Lenders do this by determining your debt-to-income ratio. Simply divide your monthly expense obligations by your gross monthly income. This will show you how much you can afford to pay on a mortgage each month. Next, research neighborhoods and properties in your price range so you can view them with confidence that you can afford them.
Preparing Your Home for Downsizing
As you prepare your current home for showings, keep your pet in mind. Once you’ve decided to sell your home, cleaning and decluttering is a major step. Is there cat hair everywhere? Be sure to vacuum. Are your pet’s toys, food, and litter boxes scattered throughout the house? Try to move them all into one room, and do a quick pick-up before each home showing. Also, make certain your pet is safe during showings. Take it with you if possible. Otherwise, enclose your pet in a carrier or cage or in one room. Also, put a sign on the door requesting privacy for your pet.
Packing with a Pet
Pets are extremely curious, so when you’re packing to move to your new home, take extra precautions to keep your pet safe. Be aware of its location at all times. Cats love cozy boxes, and you don’t want to accidentally pack your sleeping pet. Also, stack all boxes in one room and close the door to prevent climbing cats, falling boxes, and broken possessions.
Moving Day
Connect with a moving company well before moving day. Do some research online and pay close attention to the services offered. Choose two or three likely candidates, and contact them to discuss your needs, schedule in-home inspections (legitimate movers will require this), and get quotes. Before you hire a mover, always obtain a written estimate. Don’t settle for an over-the-phone quote.
On moving day, keep your pet with you at all times or
leave it at a friend’s house. Cats are easily frightened and good at hiding, and you don’t want to spend your day hunting for your pet or worrying about it getting hurt. When you arrive at your new home, immediately set up a secure place for your pet with its bed, food, and litter box. This will help your pet adjust and stay safe during unloading and unpacking.
If you own your own business, moving day can be especially stressful. One idea is to find a virtual receptionist agency to help alleviate some of the burdens on you during the big day. A virtual receptionist can field and disposition your calls, allowing you to center your focus on the move and taking care of your four-legged friend.
Small and Pet-Friendly
Small spaces can be both pet-friendly and neatly organized. Creatively hide pet beds and litter boxes inside specially designed furniture. Use decorative baskets to disguise toys and pet supplies. Think vertical; most cats love beds and perches that are off the floor. Finally, make sure to keep your space clean. Scoop the litter box several times per day, wipe up messes immediately, and vacuum frequently.
No Catastrophes Here with Downsizing
When you’ve settled into your smaller space, you might just find you have less upkeep and more time to spend with your pet. So keep your eyes on the prize, and enjoy the process of downsizing with your animal friend.