What Pet Owners Should Know Right Now About Buying A Home

What Role Do Pets Play?

61% of U.S. households have a pet or have future plans to get one.
99% of owners feel that their pet is part of the family.
81% of Americans say that their pets play a role in their housing decision.
19% of Americans say they would consider moving for their pet.*
12% percent have moved for their pet.*
*would consider moving, or have moved total: 32%

Housing Demand

With 99% of owners feeling that their pet is part of the family, all pet owners would likely take notice of pet friendly features of a home. Considering that more than half of American households have pets or plan to get one, pet friendly features are a good way to add extra appeal to the majority of families if you are not looking for your “forever home”.

House Or Home

When buying a home, not only is there no pet fee, but it’s also a great idea to highlight what you think makes a home “pet friendly” in order to help with your decision! To get you started, here are some suggestions:

  • What kind of flooring does it have?
  • How much room will your pet(s) have to roam?
  • How easy will it be to keep it clean?
  • How walkable is the neighborhood?
  • Is there a dog park nearby?

These are just a few examples.

Top 3 things pet owners look for in a home

  1. Fenced-in backyard
  2. Dog-friendly areas nearby
  3. Close to pet stores and veterinarian offices

Keep outdoor spaces and location in mind when shopping for your next home. If you need help getting started, find your branch call todaycontact us today!

All data sourced from National Association of REALTORS Research Department’s February 13, 2017 report: “Animal House: Remodeling Impact” (https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/reports/2017/2017-remodeling-impact-animals-in-homes-02-13-2017.pdf)