1. Stories
Although the choice between a single-story or two-story home is purely subjective and a matter of personal preferences, pet owners may have special needs.
For instance, if your dog or cat is aging and has difficulty climbing stairs, you might want to consider a single-story home. This will save you the hassle of having to carry your pet up and down the stairs. It may also save wear and tear on a senior pet's joints.
2. Location
Cat and dog owners might want to consider buying a home that is not adjacent to heavy street traffic. When house-hunting, consider a home located in a cul-de-sac and away from main roads. Even the most trained and well-behaved dog may dash out the door unexpectedly, which can be dangerous. The same concern applies to cat owners as well.
A cul-de-sac home means better safety for pets, as there is no through traffic. As a bonus, cul-de-sacs may also be at a lower risk for burglaries. This type of property may be worth considering.
Pet owners should also choose a home that is nearby to services such as a veterinary clinic, pet supply stores, and groomers. Do some research on your possible homes and see how need needed services are to the home.
3. Dog Parks
A new home located near a dog park is a nice perk for many dog owners. If your pet menagerie includes a canine (or several), keep this aspect in mind. A nearby dog park will provide your pet with the opportunity to get fresh air and exercise, as it is designed for long walks and play.
Neighborhood dog parks also allow for socialization with other humans and pets. Your dog may learn how to interact and behave around other dogs and people, and you may also benefit by meeting other like-minded pet owners in the community. Dog parks have become desirable for many prospective home buyers, so you might want to consider this as you shop around for your new home.
4. Flooring
You may prefer the look and feel of plush carpeting, but this might not be the best choice if you own dogs or cats. Carpets are often difficult to clean and shedding pet hair may be another concern. To save yourself the expense of new flooring, choose a house with vinyl laminate or ceramic tile floors, which are scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
You might want to avoid hardwood flooring, as it is prone to scratches and damage from liquid spills. If you can find a home with bamboo flooring, consider yourself in luck, as bamboo is stain-resistant and a great choice for pet owners.
5. Yard
If you're a pet owner, you'll probably benefit from a home with an enclosed yard. A safety gate or fence is a great addition. What about plants and foliage in the yard? Consider that some species of plants may be poisonous to dogs and cats, so be aware of the landscape before you choose your new home.
Watch out for tulips, azaleas, and lilies in particular, as these are toxic to some pets. Of course, if you've already chosen your dream home and it happens to have a garden, you may just need to keep a fence around any plants that are off-limits to curious pets.
When making your home buying decision, don't forget the needs of your furry family members. Contact your real estate agency
for further assistance and suggestions.
