How to Find a Pet-Friendly Home
Pets are a part of the family. In fact, some people treat their pets like a human-- some even treat them better than humans. Some baby boomers whose children have grown and left home, sometimes substitute their pets for the kids who have moved out.
In a survey of millennial home buyers conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of SunTrust Mortgage, the poll determined that the desire for a better space or a yard for a dog influenced their decision to buy their first home. Dogs were among the top three motivators — cited by 33 percent of buyers, compared with 25 percent who mentioned marriage, and 19 percent who mentioned the birth of a child. There is no doubt that pets have a significant role in our lives.
Here is a list of points you should consider when buying a new home for yourself and your furry friend.
1) Check County, City Code Restrictions and Read the Home Owner Association bylaws
Many cities restrict the number and types of pets allowed within city limits. For example if you wanted to own a chicken coop or perhaps a goat many times farm animals are not allowed in the city limits. Not every HOA allows pets. If the home owners association permits pets, most likely the association bylaws will address restrictions on numbers, types, sizes, heights, noise factors and whether pets are allowed to freely roam the premises. Some areas or HOAs will even restrict the type of breed that can live in certain areas. So, it is important to do your homework and consult your realtor for advice.
2) What does the Home offer for your Pet?
I once had a buyer who was single but wanted an extra bedroom that could be converted into a cat “rec” room. She also wanted a screened porch so her indoor cat could enjoy the outdoors. I have other homeowners that needed a fenced yard so their pets can roam around outside.
When looking at a new home also consider things that might make your pets life easier. Is there an outdoor faucet so you can bath your dog or wash off his paws after a walk? Check to make sure the home has exterior faucets; it's an easy thing to overlook. Is the yard fenced or can it be later? Make a list of your desired preferences before going home shopping.
4) Examine the Home's Layout
Older pets might have trouble climbing stairs, so for some home buyers with senior pets, a single-story home may be a better fit. Cats like windows. Is there an area suitable for your pet to watch the world go by? Is there a playroom for your pets? Is there room to install a pet door? Is there a discreet place for a litter box? Pets love to run. Is there a place for them to run and play? If you keep your pets confined to certain rooms, is the layout conducive to that arrangement?
5) What is the Street Traffic like?
Even the most well pets can dart out when the front door is opened. Cats are no different. A curious cat can find a way to push open a screen door to get outside. To prevent tragedy, it's better to pass on purchasing a home that is located on or near a busy thoroughfare.
6) What other Pets have Lived in the Home?
When purchasing an older home that had pets check for previous pet damage, especially under rugs. Look at the backs of doors for scratches or gouges. Ask about pet accidents. It’s also good to inquire about fleas in the house.
Pet odors are almost impossible to eliminate from a home without great expense but might not even be noticeable to you. Make sure you bring along a friend who does not own a pet to act as your official sniffer. Cats, especially, mark territory; and if you own a cat, you don't want to encourage your cat to do the same. Consider a blacklight and inspect areas at night for signs of cat urine.
7) Find Out if the Neighborhood is Pet Friendly
When you drive around your selected neighborhood can you spot neighbors outside walking their dogs or notice cats sleeping in sunny windows. Is there a sidewalk close to the home or a park nearby to exercise your pet? Roll down your windows can you hear dogs barking? You may also want to know if your potential new neighbors have pets and if that will be a problem for you are your pet living next door.
Look for community-placed pet waste receptacles. This will help show if the area is pet friendly. Consider whether you would prefer an area where dogs are on leashes and the owners carry plastic bags, or a community where dogs run free, chasing cars. This will also give you a clue about the kind of neighbors you may have.
By simply taking a few of these points into account both you and your pet will have a happier home. If I can help you in your search for a new home just shoot me an email, I am here to help.