A recent study shows how pets are considered in the buying and selling property.
If anyone is happy about our being stuck at home, it’s our pets. Owners who previously left for work every morning have become constant companions to pets during the pandemic, providing scratches, treats and walks throughout the workweek. This writer’s own skittish rescue cat has become increasingly playful and willing to accept a pat or two as the lockdown has stretched on.
According to reports from shelters across the country, people have been eager to foster pets recently, so while we can infer that pets are happier with us around, it’s clear that humans have been leaning into the opportunity to experience their companionship. In fact, it wasn’t long after the lockdown began that The New York Times started reporting on the hunger for puppies and providing advice on topics like grooming and planning for a pet’s care should their owner become ill.
But how does our resurfaced love affair with furry creatures affect how we buy and sell homes? A recent study by the National Association of Realtors compiled more than 15,000 responses to surveys of its professional membership, recent home buyers and sellers, and randomly chosen, geographically diverse households. The findings show that a pet’s needs are important to buyers, though only a small percentage will actually make a move to accommodate the needs of a pet. Pet-friendly features such as fenced yards and pet doors were among those on many a buyer’s wish list.
The survey demonstrated that many people consider their animals members of the family, though it also showed that it’s important to erase evidence of pets when showing homes. That includes removing the pets themselves in addition to their toys, their odors, and any wear they’ve caused. After all, not every buyer is a pet lover, and even those who love their own animals may not love yours.
Real Estate Professionals
18% Have represented clients who moved solely because of their pet
38% Had clients within the last year who have owned a pet, companion animal, or service animal
68% Said that animal policies influenced their clients’ decision to rent or buy in a particular community
Buyers, Sellers, Renters
63% U.S. households that have a pet or plan to get one
43% U.S. households that would be willing to move to accommodate a pet
1% Recent home buyers who bought to make a better home for their pet
4% Single females who bought to make a better home for their pet
2% Unmarried couples who bought to make a better home for their pet
18% Recent home buyers for whom convenience to a vet or outdoor space for their pet was very important
$300 The median annual pet fee for clients in single-family homes, townhouses, condos and co-ops
$400 The median annual pet fee for clients in rentals
Suggested Changes From Real Estate Professionals for Selling
78% Take animals out of home for showings
72% Replace anything damaged by a pet
61% Professionally clean the home
47% Remove pet objects
33% Replacing carpet or finish floors
Most Requested Pet Features
49% Fenced yard
27% Large enough home for household and pet
3% Flooring
3% Mudroom, animal washing station
2% Dog door
2% Animal pool, outdoor water feature
2% Cat litter closet
1% Built-ins for food dishes, animal beds
Published on 2020-06-04 16:25:47
