SELLING YOUR HOUSE WITH KIDS: A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR PARENTS

jessicanakamura
Aug 18
2 min read

Let’s be real—selling your home with kids is not exactly a Pinterest-worthy experience.

You know those perfectly staged photos of spotless living rooms with fluffy pillows and not a toy in sight? Yeah… that’s not real life when you’ve got children. Between Lego explosions, snack crumbs, and backpacks multiplying by the door, the idea of keeping your house “show-ready” feels laughable.

But here’s the good news: you can sell your house with children without losing your sanity. It just takes some planning, realistic expectations, and a few mom-approved hacks.

Two kids do headstands on a couch in a bright room. They're joyful, surrounded by colorful pillows and hanging plants, with a garden view.

Decluttering Toys Strategically

You don’t need to get rid of everything (your kids would definitely notice). Instead, try rotating toys. Pack up half into bins and store them away, then leave just a few favourites out. Not only does it cut clutter, but it also makes clean-up faster.

Kid-Friendly Storage Hacks

Baskets, bins, and cube organizers are your best friends. A few stylish baskets in the living room mean you can toss toys in quickly before a showing. Bonus: it makes the space look intentional, not messy.

The “Go Bag” for Last-Minute Showings

Always keep a bag packed in the car with:

Snacks + water bottles
Books or small toys
Diapers/wipes if needed
A phone charger
Comfort items (stuffie, blanket)

That way, when your realtor calls for a showing, you can grab the bag and go.

Where to Go During Showings

Need somewhere to escape? Try:

Local libraries (quiet + kid-friendly)
EarlyON Drop in Programs
Indoor play gyms
A quick trip to the park

These little outings can actually make showings easier on everyone.

Involve the Kids in Small Tasks

Give kids age-appropriate jobs like putting toys in bins or fluffing pillows. It helps them feel included—and less resistant to the process.

How I Help Make Selling with Kids Easier

As a mom of three myself, I get it. I know showings might need to work around nap time. I understand that laundry happens. And I’ll never expect your home to look like a showroom 24/7.

Here’s how I make the process easier:

A clear, step-by-step plan tailored for families
Honest advice about what really matters (and what doesn’t) when prepping your home
Access to trusted cleaners, stagers, and organizers who understand “real life” homes
Flexible showing strategies that work for busy families