Many people nowadays choose to be a pet parents. They love their cats and dogs as much as they would if they have children. Those who have children still treat their furry pals as a part of the family.
So, when buying a house, pets should be taken into consideration. They, too, have needs that should be met for their comfort and overall well-being. In addition to the most affordable mortgage rate in town, you need to consider the cost of pet-related repairs, whether the house is pet-friendly, and how much extra work will be involved in creating a suitable space for your pet.
There are pros and cons to buying a home with pets. So if you are about to buy your own home for the first time and you have pets, here are some important things that you need to consider first.
A Space to Run Around
Pets, especially dogs need a place to run around. Dogs will get their physical exercise every day if you allow them to. But they also need a safe and wide space where they can roam around freely during weekends or when you are not at home.
So when buying a house with pets, choose one that has a backyard where your dog can run around. The backyard should also have a fence to keep the dog safe.
Proximity to Pet Amenities
If not within the property, homebuyers should consider the proximity of the neighborhood to common areas where dogs can get their daily dose of exercise such as public parks.
In addition, look for a home that is close to pet stores, veterinary clinics, and other places you might need to go to for the care of your pets.
Cost of Repairs
Pets, especially dogs shed hair. You need to vacuum your house several times a week to keep it clean. Taking care of the carpet is much more expensive than cleaning the hardwood flooring or tiles. So if you have pets and you are thinking of buying a home, make sure that the floors wouldn’t capture too much fur, pet dander, and pet stains.
If you get home with too much carpeting, it may be wiser to refinance and buy a house with concrete or tile flooring. Although hardwood may be pretty, it might only get destroyed with scratches from pets running around the house and playing. You have to consider all these things. Otherwise, you would spend too much time cleaning up after your pets.
Consider Potential Danger Zones
When buying a house, consider the potential danger zones for your pets. This means swimming pools, for example. If you are not cautious, your pet might get into the water and get drowned. Steep stairs and balconies can also cause your pets to get hurt and, therefore, should also be considered.
That is why it is important to take time to study the home’s layout before deciding on the price of the property. You also need to think about whether you can let your dog roam around freely in the neighborhood without getting too much danger from traffic, other animals, and humans who may harm him/her.
Pet-Specific Home Features
Your home should have features that will make caring for pets easier. Something like an outdoor bathroom or washbasin, which can make it easier to clean your pets after they play outdoors, will be convenient.
For cats, sunrooms and enclosed porches will allow them to sit down under the sunlight and enjoy the breeze without escaping out. Cats need a place to rest too. A sunroom or an enclosed porch is just perfect for those with pets.
Houses that already have doggy doors will also be convenient to pet owners who are too busy to let their dogs out every time they need to go outdoors. You no longer have to install one for yourself because the first owner already did it for you.
Other features that may make your life easier as a pet owner include heated floors, nooks for cats to hide under, and disappearing screens.
Of course, you need to choose a house that fits your budget. But don’t forget the things that are really important especially if you have pets. You wouldn’t want them to get hurt just because they were unable to run around or play with other animals in the neighborhood.
Buying a house when you have pets is different from buying a house if you have children. Each pet has his/her own needs, so consider these things carefully when buying a home with pets. By making the right decision, you’ll have an easier time taking care of your pets and you will also have more savings in the long run.
Meta title: What to Look for When Buying a House When You Have Pets
meta desc: Buying a home can be a great experience, but there are things you need to consider before deciding. It should be the right property for you and your pets.