After applying for mortgage refinancing, you can now begin the process of buying your dream home. If you have a pet, it’s not enough that the house looks good. As a responsible fur parent, here are several features that you should take into account:
- Floor Plan – If you own more than two dogs, you might need a larger space so your fur babies will have room for running and playing.
- Flooring – Wall-to-wall carpeting is not ideal for owners living with animals. The fabrics are prone to scratches, mud, and dirt. Instead, go for pre-finished wood floors, hardwoods, or solid wood.
- Yard/Fencing – Is the fence high enough to keep the canines in and the critters out?
- Stairs – Think long-term. A puppy could have no problem going up and down the stairs now, but the stairs could be hard to climb when they get older and weaker.
- Landscaping – Ivies, ferns, daylilies, and daffodil bulbs are some plants you want to avoid in the landscaping as they are poisonous to pets.
Learn About the Local Pet Laws
Check with the homeowner or condominium associations if they implement pet policies. These may include the following:
- Limitations on the type and number of animals you can own
- Requirements on pet licenses and vaccinations
- Noise ordinance
How’s the Neighborhood?
Just as a buyer who’s starting a family would want to move into a neighborhood with a low crime rate, has child-friendly establishments, and has a school nearby, you would want to settle in a community that’s safe for your fur babies.
Ideally, you should look for a neighborhood where many residents have pets. That area is likely to have city parks or, if you’re lucky, a park specifically created for animals. You must also consider the property’s proximity to pet stores and services. Here are a few more important concerns:
- Is there a veterinarian within the vicinity?
- Are there emergency pet centers in town?
- Will you be needing pet groomers, sitters, or daycare in the future?
- Do the malls or restaurants nearby allow pets inside?
More Tips for Buying a Pet-Friendly Property
If you are already familiar with the ins and outs of the real estate landscape, you might want to pass up on the opportunity to work with an agent or broker. But if you need help in finding the perfect pet-friendly property, don’t fret.
In a 2018 survey by the Realtor.com, 89% of Millennial homebuyers have a pet. It’s no wonder then that this demographic places a high priority on the needs and happiness of their furry babies when looking for a home. This trend has prompted many realtors and brokers to ensure they always have pet-friendly properties on their listings.
But just because it says in the listing that the house is pet-friendly, doesn’t mean you should jump the gun. It’s always a good idea to see the fine print and when you do, make sure to bring your pet with you. See how they find the surroundings. Their reaction should help you decide whether you’ve found the right property.
