4 Steps to a Pet-Friendly House

The family pet is an integral member of many households - and an integral factor when buyers are looking for a new place to call home.  62% of U.S. households own a pet, according to the American Pet Products Association's 2009-2010 National Pet Owner Survey.  Dogs are most popular in 45% of households, followed by cats in 38% of households.

Here are 4 tips to ensure that the property you are looking for meets the needs of your furry friends:

Give your realtor the basic information about your pet(s):

Let your realtor know your pet's breed, weight, age and exercise regimen.  If you are planning to add more pets, be sure to inquire about any restrictions on number of animals allowed in multi-family buildings or homeowner associations.  This information will also help in determining the type and size of property you need. 

Do your homework!

The home you are looking at may have a marvelous chef's kitchen and upgrades galore, but if your pet isn't comfortable, you won't be happy!  Let your realtor know what specific amenities or features you are seeking for your pet.  That gives the realtor time to do research to find out if the property or community you are interested in has any pet restrictions.

Work closely with your realtor:

Your realtor will be able to provide you with a pet resource list for your market area. Included on that list will be veterinary clinics, emergency clinics, boarding facilities, dog parks, walking paths, grooming facilities, pet supply stores and pet friendly restaurants.

Consider the property's layout:

Let your realtor know of any little extras you may want to have for your pet, such as a laundry room with space enough to wash your pet, under-window benches to store pet toys, extra kitchen storage for pet food, fenced-in yard, etc.