No matter how intricate the need, the Property Sisters have seen it all, and share their combined 40 years of wisdom for your property and estate planning needs. This month Bridget Gricus and Eileen Kerlin Walsh share advice about our favorite furry friends.
Our pets borrow their way into our family and into our hearts. We need to plan for them when considering buying or selling a home, and for if we become ill or pass away.
Instructions for the Care of Your Pet: In case of an emergency, a checklist with your pet’s vital information in one place is both handy and crucial, and should include:
- Pet’s name, breed, age, sex, tag information
- Medication and health history
- Veterinarian information
- Hiding places, favorite toys, likes, dislikes, habits, mealtime
- Where to find…food, treats, bowls, bags, beds, leashes, crates, carriers
- Pet sitter information or a backup caregiver, family member, neighbor or friend
Buying Tips: You want your pet to feel as comfortable in your new home as you do. Is the property pet-friendly, does it have a fenced in yard? If there are stairs, can your pet easily navigate them? Consider carpeting vs. hardwood floors. Ask your realtor if there are pet-friendly parks nearby, applicable pet laws, and veterinarian recommendations.
Selling Tips: Potential buyers may not be pet lovers like you are. Temporarily relocate your pet during showings. Remove hairs, deodorize smells, deep clean stains, and repair pet damage. Maintain these measures throughout the listing time.
A Plan for Fido! Plan for your pets just as seriously as you plan for your human loved ones. Merely asking a family member to look after the pet, even if you leave money, is no guarantee that friend or family member would follow your wishes. With proper planning, the pet owner’s intentions are followed. A Pet Trust is a legal document that provides a strategy and funds to care for your pet in your absence. Name a caretaker, leave instructions, and specify an amount of money to be used for the benefit of your pet. Your planning depends on the extent of your assets, number of pets, age, type, etc. A 10-year old Maltese may need less and for a shorter period of time than a bird that can live for 100 years!
Scan the QR code or click here to hear Eileen talk more about Pet Trusts.
For these and other valuable tips and advice, the Property Sisters are here to answer your questions.
Bridget Gricus (708) 814-6253, bridgetgricus@gmail.com
Eileen Kerlin Walsh (708) 448-5169, Eileen@KerlinWalshLaw.com
