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How Do Pets Influence Homebuying?

May 1, 2025

Adding a furry friend to your family can bring so much joy to your life. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bunny, or other, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face when you walk in the door. Not surprisingly, many household decisions revolve around them. Now, an increasing number of prospective homeowners are accounting for their pets when looking for suitable homes. So, how does homebuying with pets work and what are the factors you need to consider?

What Numbers Say

Numbers collated by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) show that more households in the U.S. have pets than children. The percentage of households with children less than 18 years old has declined from 52% in 1950 to 39% in 2023. Not surprisingly, this trend is common with homebuyers too, wherein while 58% of homebuyers had children less than 18 years old in their households in 1985, the number dropped to 30% in 2023.

On the other hand, while 56% of households had pets in 1988, the number increased to 66% in 2024. In addition, the size of the American pet industry stood at $147 billion in 2023, up from $53.3 billion in 2012.

The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report also highlights how many homebuyers account for their pets when selecting neighborhoods.

• Unmarried couples – 29%
• Single women – 20%
• Married couples – 19%
• Single men – 15%
• All buyers – 19%

Among buyers who considered their pets in their decision-making, the most important factors when deciding on neighborhoods included:

• Proximity to parks and recreation – 32%
• Walkability – 26%
• Availability of large outdoor space – 23%

What to Consider When Buying a Home With Pets?

Pet owners who wish to purchase homes have checklists that extend beyond the usual square footage, school districts, inspections, down payments, and mortgage pre-approvals. This is because buying a pet-friendly house requires paying attention to aspects that people without pets have no reason to worry about. However, if you don’t have a pet now but think you might get one in the future, you may also benefit by looking at how pets affect the homebuying decision.

Square Footage

While every homebuyer considers squarefootage when buying a home, this aspect takes special meaning if you’re a pet owner. Several dogs experience a behavior referred to as frenetic random activity period (FRAP) or, more commonly, as zoomies. While no known cause for this behavior exists, the veterinary fraternity believes this is how dogs release pent-up energy, or, in some cases, alleviate stress.

When you buy a home with a large square footage, you give your dog plenty of room to run around and burn energy, especially when the zoomies kick in. Besides, it’s not just dogs; cats also love to sprint and pounce around and without having to maneuver through furniture, and there are plenty of cats who enjoy being outdoors.

The size of your pet can also play a role in the size of your home. For example, a Dachshund will be more comfortable in a 1,200 square foot home than a German Shepard. The bigger the animal, the more space you will need.

Accessibility

Often associated with human needs, accessibility in home design can be surprisingly beneficial for pets. For example, if you have an old pet, you might want to consider buying a single-story home instead of a multi-story one because traversing stairs would be a problem. This is also the case if there are stairs leading up to a house, unless there’s enough room for constructing a ramp.

Smooth Transitions: Ramps and Gentle Slopes

Jumping onto high beds or navigating steep stairs can put a strain on pets’ joints, especially as they age or if they have mobility issues. Installing ramps or opting for homes with gentle slopes can make a world of difference.

• For senior pets or those with arthritis. Ramps provide a low-impact way for pets to access their favorite spots indoors and outdoors, preventing pain and potential injuries.
• For small or short-legged breeds. Dealing with even a few steps can be a challenge for a small pet. Ramps offer a safe and easy way for them to move around independently.
• Outdoor access. Gentle slopes leading to the backyard make breaks and playtime safer and more convenient, especially during wet or icy conditions.

Flooring that Works for Paws (and Spills)

The type of flooring a home has can have a significant impact your pet’s comfort and your cleaning routine.

• Hardwood, laminate, or tile. These surfaces are generally easier to clean up spills and pet hair compared to carpets. The use of good sealants prevents staining and water damage.
• Non-slip surfaces. Polished concrete or overly smooth tiles can be slippery for paws, potentially leading to falls and injuries. Textured finishes are better and you may consider adding pet-friendly rugs in high-traffic areas once you purchase the home.

Smart and Secure Entryways

Keeping your pet safe and secure is paramount, and accessibility features tend to play a role here too.

• Pet doors. Installing a secure pet door gives your pet controlled access to a fenced yard, offering freedom and convenience. Some homes havesmart pet doors that you can program and lock remotely for added security.
• Wide doorways and hallways. These make it easier for larger pets to move around comfortably, especially if they are carrying toys or if you are walking alongside them.

Outdoor Space

Data released by Zillowindicates that there is a higher likelihood of pet owners finding private outdoor space to be very or extremely important (73%) in comparison to homebuyers who don’t have pets (65%). While having plenty of fenced space to run around is enough for some pet owners, others look for features like non-toxic landscaping, areas with shade, and enclosed patios. In the absence of a fence, you’ll need to look at how much money you might end up spending to get a new one.

Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods

The answer to “Are there pet-friendly neighborhoods?” is in the affirmative, and New York has its fair share. There’s more tobuying a home in a pet-friendly neighborhood than having a yard, although that’s certainly a bonus, and this is what you may expect.

• Safety and freedom.Designated off-leash areas provide a safe space for your pet to socialize and burn off energy without the constant worry of traffic. Well-lit streets and friendly neighbors also contribute to a safer environment for morning and evening walks.
• Socializing. Pet-friendly neighborhoods often foster a strong sense of community among animal lovers. You’ll find opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals at dog parks, pet-focused events, and even casual encounters on walks. This not only benefits your social life but also provides valuable socializing for your pet.
• Convenience at your doorstep. Easy access to pet supply stores, groomers, veterinarians, and animal hospitals within your neighborhood eliminates stressful commutes and makes pet care more manageable. Some neighborhoodshave plenty of pet-friendly cafes and businesses, allowing you to include your pet in more aspects of your daily life.
• Health and well-being.Ample green spaces, walking trails, and fresh air contribute significantly to your pet’s physical and mental health. Regular exercise and opportunities to explore their surroundings can reduce anxiety, prevent boredom, and promote overall well-being. Besides, a happy pet typically translates to a happier owner.
• Potential increase in property value.As the number of pet-owning households continues to rise, pet-friendly amenities are becoming increasingly desirable. Choosing a home in a neighborhood that caters to pets can be a smart long-term investment.

Community Policies

One way how pets influence the homebuying decision involves community policies, especially if you plan to buy a home that’s part of a homeowner’s association (HOA) or a similarly planned community. This is because while some communities welcome pets, others impose restrictions that can range from inconvenient to deal-breaking.

Understanding thespectrum of policies before you sign on the dotted line is essential to avoid heartache down the road.

• Open arms.Some communities have minimal restrictions, perhaps just requiring basic things like leashing in common areas and picking up after your pet.
• Size and breed restrictions.This is a common area of contention. Many communities impose weight limits on dogs or ban certain breeds labeled as aggressive (think Pit Bull and Rottweiler).
• Number limits.You might be limited to owning a specific number of pets, whether it’s one dog, two cats, or a combination. If you’re a multi-pet household, this is a critical policy to investigate.
• Specific animal bans.Some communities might have rules against certain types of pets such as reptiles, exotic birds, or ferrets.
• Leash laws and common area rules.Expect rules about leashing your dog in shared spaces, designated pet relief areas, and restrictions on where you may take your pets.
• Noise regulations. Excessive barking or other pet noises can lead to complaints and potential violations of community rules.
• Registration and fees. Many HOAs require pet registration and most tend to charge annual pet fees. According to Statista, the average annual pet fee in single family homes, townhouses, condos, and co-ops stood at $300in 2020.

The Advent of Barkitecture

Barkitecture is definitely a thing, so much so that it inspired a TV series by the same name. The show involved building build custom luxury dog homes for celebrities. This form or architecture, if you maycall it that, is all about creating a harmonious living space where both humans and their pets can thrive. From the perspective of prospective homebuyers, considering these features can be crucial.

Barkitecture goes far beyond simply throwing down a comfy bed. It’s about intentional design choices that cater to a pet’s needs and instincts. Some of the elements you may find in a home that follows this concept include:

• Built-in feeding stations. Sleek, built-in feeding stations don’t just look stylish but also prevent spills and keep things tidy. They’ll also keep you from tripping over food and water bowls.
• Mudrooms with paw-washing stations. A dedicated paw-washing station in a mudroom can save your pristine floors from muddy patches.
• Dog showers. For larger breeds or those who love to roll in everything, a dedicated dog shower in the laundry room or garage can make bath time a breeze, and save your back too.
• Durable and easy-to-clean flooring. Hardwood, tile, or polished concrete are not only chic but also stand up to scratches, spills, and shedding.
• Secure dog doors.These doorsgive your pet the freedom to roam the backyard safely and conveniently. Modern options come with smart technology for added security.
• Designated dens. Creating a cozy and secure space, whether it’s a nook under the stairs or a dedicated room, gives your pet a sanctuary to retreat to when the mood arises.
• Outdoor amenities.These can come in the form of dog runs and built-in water features for hot afternoons.

Why Barkitecture Matters for Homebuyers

As the number of pet-owning households continues to rise, homes with barkitecture features are becoming increasingly desirable. These features aren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they make life easier for pet owners. More importantly, barkitecture considers pets’ comfort, safety, and natural instincts, contributing to their overall happiness and well-being. In addition, as this trend gains momentum, homes thoughtfully designed for pets may command a higher resale value down the line.

Why Getting Pre-Approved Is Important

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step in your journey toward homeownership. This way, you’ll know exactly how much you can comfortably afford, saving you time and heartache by focusing your search on realistic options. Besides, a pre-approval shows sellers you’re a serious and qualified buyer, giving you a competitive edge in competitive markets.

Before you apply for pre-approval, make sure you check your credit score because it might have an effect on the type of mortgage you can get.

Conclusion

When it comes to pets and homebuying, it’s a great idea to look for homes and neighborhoods where they might feel at ease. Now that you’ve seen how pets can impact home buying decisions, it’s time to think about reaching out to a mortgage provider and getting a pre-approval. Know that this is the best way to begin the process of buying a pet-friendly house because you can then limit your search accordingly.