Furry Friends and For Sale Signs: How Pets Influence Home Sales
Pets significantly influence home sales, affecting both buyers’ decisions and sellers’ strategies. With nearly 66% of U.S. households owning a pet, according to the National Association of REALTORS®’ 2023 report, understanding how pets impact home sales is crucial.
For Buyers:
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Home Features: Pet owners often prioritize properties with pet-friendly amenities. Features such as fenced yards, durable flooring, and proximity to parks are highly desirable. In fact, 43% of households would be willing to move to better accommodate their pets.
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Community Policies: Neighborhood regulations regarding pets can influence purchasing decisions. Approximately 68% of REALTORS®’ clients say that animal policies influenced their decision to rent or buy in a particular community.
For Sellers:
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Home Presentation: While pet-friendly features can attract buyers, visible signs of pets may deter some prospects. It’s advisable to remove pets during showings and address any pet-related damage. A clean, odor-free environment appeals to a broader audience.
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Market Appeal: Highlighting pet-friendly aspects of a home can enhance its attractiveness. Emphasizing nearby dog parks, pet-friendly trails, and local veterinary services can make the property more appealing to pet owners.
Understanding how pets impact home sales allows both buyers and sellers to make informed decisions, ensuring that homes meet the needs of all family members, including the furry ones.
The Impact of Pets on Home Sales
First Impressions Matter Buyers stepping into a home want to envision themselves living there. A friendly golden retriever greeting them at the door might warm some hearts, but strong pet odors or fur-covered furniture could turn others away. According to surveys, 67% of buyers admit that a noticeable pet smell is a dealbreaker. Sellers, take note: a deep clean is crucial before showings.
Pet-Friendly Features: A Selling Point On the flip side, homes with pet-friendly amenities can attract buyers. Features like fenced yards, durable flooring, and even built-in pet washing stations are increasingly popular. In fact, 31% of pet owners prioritize a home’s pet-friendliness when buying, and many are willing to pay extra for these features.
Staging with Pets in Mind While it might be tempting to showcase your adorable French bulldog as part of your home’s charm, experts recommend keeping pets (and their belongings) out of sight during showings. This allows buyers to focus on the property itself. Pro tip: remove pet toys, beds, and bowls to create a clean slate.
Exploring the Pet Effect on Real Estate Trends
Selling a Home as a Pet Owner
Here’s how sellers can put their best paw forward:
- Deep Clean Everything: Vacuum carpets, mop floors, and wash pet bedding. Pay extra attention to neutralizing odors; a professional cleaning service might be worth the investment.
- Repair Pet Damage: Scratched floors and chewed moldings can lower your home’s perceived value. Fix these before listing.
- Relocate Pets During Showings: Temporarily boarding your pets or having a friend watch them can make showings smoother for everyone involved.
Buying a Home with Pets
If you’re on the other side of the transaction and searching for a new home for you and your furry companions, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for Pet-Friendly Communities: Check HOA rules or neighborhood policies to ensure pets are welcome.
- Consider the Layout: Single-story homes, fenced yards, and nearby parks are ideal for pets.
- Inspect for Hidden Hazards: Make sure the home doesn’t have toxic plants, loose wires, or other dangers to pets.
Fun Pet Real Estate Facts
- Homes with “pet-friendly” features can sell for 2-5% more than comparable homes without.
- 27% of millennial buyers specifically look for pet amenities when house hunting.
- Dogs are the most common pet in U.S. households, with 45.3 million homes owning at least one.
Jacqueline Newhouse
Real Estate Agent/1st Class Real Estate Triangle East
Remember, buying a home or selling your current home is not just a transaction. It’s a significant milestone, a step towards building your future. Let’s embark on this journey together.
Jacqueline Newhouse
Email: j.newhouse@1stclassre.com
Cell:252-544-0703
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Pet Ownership and Real Estate: By the Numbers
Over 70% of homebuyers consider pet-friendly features essential.
Pet-Friendly Homes Sell 15% Faster
60% of Buyers Are Pet Owners
Increase in Value: Homes with Pet Amenities
What Our Clients Say
“Having pets was a concern when selling our home, but Jacqueline’s expertise made the process seamless. Our home sold quickly, and we couldn’t be happier!”
Emily R.
“Jacqueline helped us find the perfect pet-friendly home. Our dogs love the spacious backyard, and we love the neighborhood!”
Mark and Lisa T.
“We were worried about how our cats would affect the sale, but with Jacqueline’s guidance, we highlighted our home’s pet-friendly features and sold above asking price.”
James K.
Common Questions About Pets and Real Estate
Understanding how pets can influence your home buying or selling experience is crucial. Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you.
How do pets affect the home selling process?
Pets can impact the selling process by influencing potential buyers’ perceptions. It’s important to highlight pet-friendly features while ensuring the home is clean and odor-free.
What should I consider when buying a home with pets?
Look for homes with fenced yards, durable flooring, and nearby parks. These features can enhance your pet’s quality of life and add value to your investment.
Are there any legal considerations for pet owners when selling a home?
Yes, some homeowners’ associations have specific rules regarding pets. It’s important to disclose any pet-related damages and adhere to local regulations.
Can having pets increase a home's value?
While pets themselves don’t increase value, pet-friendly features such as a large yard or proximity to parks can make a home more attractive to buyers.
How can I prepare my home for showings with pets?
Ensure your home is clean and free of pet odors. Consider removing pets during showings and highlighting any pet-friendly features.
What are the best ways to market a pet-friendly home?
Emphasize features like fenced yards, pet doors, and nearby amenities. Use professional photos to showcase these aspects effectively.
Appealing Features for Pet Owners
Pet-Friendly Home Features
Spacious Fenced Yards
Homes with large, secure yards are highly desirable for pet owners, offering a safe space for pets to play and exercise.
Durable Flooring Options
Durable flooring such as tile or hardwood is ideal for pet-friendly homes, providing easy maintenance and long-lasting beauty.