Approximately 66% of U.S. households own a pet according to a 2024 report by Forbes magazine. With more adults owning pets than having children, it may not be a surprise that the new trend in real estate is pet-friendly homes.
What are the pet owners looking for in pet-friendly homes? What should you consider adding if you want to attract owners of pets? Here are some tips to help you sell your home in this pet-friendly housing market.
Exterior Features for Pet-Friendly Homes
This new trend drives the buying force in real estate for both buyers and sellers. Buyers are looking for homes with the following exterior pet-friendly features:
- Fenced in backyards, yards with a special place just for a dog or cat, or side yards for dogs to relieve themselves are some of the most popular exterior features.
- Pet-friendly landscapes including bark, grass, non-poisonous plants and shrubs, gravel or small rocks can serve as a safe place for your pet to play and relieve itself. Plants that repel fleas such as mint, lavender, or rosemary and edible features such as strawberries, blueberries, and oat grass are also smart choices.
- Water features for animals to keep cool and drink water bring additional interest to a potential homebuyer.
- Sand pits, meant for dogs to dig in, provide exercise and fun for canine companions.
- Catios for cats to enjoy the outside while staying safe in an enclosed environment
- Paths or walkways for dogs to travel around the yard without trampling bushes or grass.
Interior Features for Pet-Friendly Homes
Pet owners who are interested in purchasing a home are looking for the following pet-friendly interior features:
- Pet-friendly materials such as flooring that is hardy, robust, and scratch resistant are popular for their ability to hide the claw marks from excited pups. Vinyl makes for easy clean ups for spills or accidents.
- Built-in features under the stairs or in bookcases make great spots for dogs to sleep or nap.
- Hidden food or watering stations are popular for their ability to make the most of space or hide unsightly food dishes.
- Cleaning stations designed just for pets can be a bonus for anyone wanting to save time and money. These stations are designed to make bathing a breeze and clean up even easier.
- Mud rooms that have a small, enclosed space to wipe off dirty paws and shoes after a romp in the rain or mud before entering the house are popular among all homeowners.
- Smaller carpeted areas make cleaning and repair easier, faster, and cheaper.
Investing in a Pet Friendly Home
If you are looking to purchase a pet friendly home, consider the savings you can put toward a vacation, upgrade, or higher mortgage payment by not having to put in these features yourself.
If you can’t find a pet-friendly home that has the features you are looking for, consider purchasing a home that may be below your purchase price so you can add these features on your own. Personalizing your own space can be a fun DIY home improvement project.
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Whether or not you are thinking of selling your home or buying a new one, I’d appreciate you considering me as your professional Real Estate Consultant. If you have any questions about the market or real estate in general or need a reference for your home, I am offering my knowledge to you.
