Tips for Buying a Pet-Friendly Home
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Alt-tag: A happy dog that makes you think about tips for buying a pet-friendly home
Most homebuyers have a clear idea of what they want in a house. On the other hand, many overlook the things that their pets may require. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly place, keep the following tips in mind while making your selection. You should also learn how to buy your first property. If you’re a landlord wanting to purchase a pet-friendly house as an investment, it’s also beneficial to understand what pet owners want in a home. So, let’s go on with the tips for buying a pet-friendly home!
Pet services
Essential pet services, such as vet clinics, must be accessible from the house you pick. You don’t have time to hunt for the nearest animal clinic when your pet needs immediate medical assistance. You should get familiar with these emergency services ahead of time. You should also check to see if there are any pet stores nearby. This saves you time by eliminating the need to go into town for pet supplies. Check to see if there are any professional groomers in the neighborhood so you may drop off your pet for regular grooming.
Caption: You should have pet services close by!
Alt-tag: A sleepy dog
The neighborhood
Even if the house has a large yard, you’ll want to take your dog for a stroll around the neighborhood from time to time. You may even consider letting your cats wander free if you have them. Consider driving by early in the morning or late in the day to see whether the area is pet-friendly. This is when most pet owners take their companions for a walk. Keep an eye on your surroundings. Do dog owners walk their dogs on or off-leash? Do their dogs appear to be friendly? Not researching the neighborhood before buying a house is a typical first-time homebuyer mistake that can easily be avoided.
Size of the home
One of the most critical tips for buying a pet-friendly home, especially if you have a large dog, is to be mindful of the size of the property. A large backyard will suffice if your pet spends most of the time outside. If they prefer to stay indoors, avoid a house with too many rooms and tight passageways. Instead, go for an open floor layout that allows your pet to move freely.
Caption: You should have enough space for a dog bed or a scratching post for your cat.
Alt-tag: A cat on a chair
Backyard
Don’t forget to check out the backyard when viewing a home. A fence tall enough to prevent your dog from jumping over should be installed in a pet-friendly backyard. Make sure the fence doesn’t have any gaps in it where your or your neighbor’s pet can get through. You should also inquire whether the individuals who live directly adjacent to your potential house have pets. If your dog barks now and again, your neighbors are more likely to understand.
Experts from Superior Moving & Storage suggest that another factor to consider is the state of the backyard. Is there any mud? Is there appropriate irrigation in the yard to prevent soil erosion? If your backyard is empty, you may need to plant pet-friendly grass if your pets will be using it as a toilet. Another factor to consider is if the backyard has a mudroom where you may clean your dogs before bringing them inside.
Stairs
If you have an aging dog or cat, think about whether they need to climb stairs to enter the house. Consider all locations where your pet will need to go, such as decks, ramps, and porches. Are the stairs low enough for dogs with short legs to access? Are there any railings to prevent them from falling? If your house has an open-rise staircase, you may need to board it to keep your furry friend from falling through the cracks.
Floors
If you want to keep your pet inside, you’ll need to seek a property with pet-friendly flooring. You can easily check that with online 3D tours if they are available. Muddy paws may ruin carpets, and sharp claws can scratch hardwood floors. Stone, tiles, cork, and bamboo are all pet-friendly materials. Vinyl flooring is ideal for pets since it is affordable, long-lasting, and resistant to scratches and moisture. Dogs prefer carpets because they are soft and less slippery, although they are prone to stains. If you believe you’ve located the perfect home, but the sole flaw is the flooring, an easy repair is to cover it with a large rug or mat.
Caption: You should check if the floors are pet-proof, especially if you have puppies.
Alt-tag: A golden retriever puppy
Location
If you have a dog, choosing a property in an area with dog parks, trails, and other green spaces is critical. This is especially true if you are purchasing a property that does not have a yard. It’s better to stay away from residences near busy roads and highways since oncoming traffic will put your pets in danger. Even if the house is surrounded by greenery, make sure to ask about the local fauna. Small dogs and cats may be attacked by coyotes and foxes.
Moving with pets
Moving with pets is challenging, but sometimes it has to be done. You should be aware that when you are stressed, your pets are stressed too. They are also moving to a new area, and a new space is something that they need to get used to. You should do everything in your power to help them adjust to the new home.
Local laws
Even if you follow these tips for buying a pet-friendly home, there’s no assurance that you’ll be able to keep your pets there. Pets could be prohibited in some homeowners associations. Condominiums, for example, may impose a limit on the number of dogs you can keep, with some even limiting the number of pets per level. Most property owners undertake pet screenings to decide whether or not the pet is welcome inside. It’s essential to visit a competent property manager or real estate agent before purchasing any property to learn about the pet-related legislation in your area.
Meta description: Thinking of purchasing a house for you and your furry friend? Here are a few tips for buying a pet-friendly home that should help you.
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