Searching for real estate can be an overwhelming task. Add a puppy or a kitten to the mix, and it gets much harder. According to research, at least 54 percent of households in the United States have pets. Even so, it’s not always easy to find a home for your furry friends. Several apartment buildings don’t allow pets at all. And, some homes are not exactly pet-friendly.
It’s essential to find a home that accepts pets. However, that’s not the only reason to do more research about real estate. Would your large dog be comfy in a small apartment? Can outdoor pets survive in a constricted indoor space? The search can put too much pressure on you. However, a few tricks and tips can make a world of difference. Here’s how to ensure you find the most pet-friendly home possible.
Online Advantages.
Whether you’re buying or renting a home, it’s a big financial decision. If you’re a dog owner or have other pets, your search for real estate gets more complicated. Instead of trying to find real estate through a broker or a referral, search online. You can find the best deals if you have the best information. You can get the newest price, research the market conditions, and make sure it’s pet-friendly.
Of course, it can be confusing to wade through all the options online. And, some scammers can sell you bad real estate at an unfair price. Make sure you visit a trusted website like nalula.com to make the most well-informed decision. The site is suitable for buyers and sellers alike. Get the best deals, search by new contingent or days contingent, and frontage pictures. You can also filter results by searching for the least-expensive lowest price homes. Most listings will tell you whether the property is pet-friendly as well.
Size Matters.
If you have a large dog, you need enough space for your pet to live well. Larger dogs do better in homes than in apartments. So, consider something with a backyard or a park nearby. With a cat or a small dog, searching for a pet-friendly home is an easier task. However, even with a small dog, you need to focus on the environment. If it’s a small home, make sure it’s space-efficient, so your pet doesn’t feel trapped. Consider a house with a park nearby where you can go on daily walks with your pooch.
If you’re moving to another state, you need to check whether the climate is suitable for your pet. If you’re looking in an apartment complex, target smaller spaces. Large, swanky buildings usually have a no-pet policy. Others charge a rental fee for your animal. Smaller real estate agencies are a great option in your search for a pet-friendly home.
Presentable Pets.
When you’re looking for a home, the first rule is honesty. Don’t hide your pet from agents or landlords. A well-presented pet can help sway the decision in your favor. If you have a cat or any other type of pet, this can be harder to do. However, as a dog owner—of a small dog or a large dog—you’re in luck. You can take your pooch along for home viewings. Remember, always keep them on a leash or a pull harness in public. After all, you don’t want any obstacle (like chasing a squirrel) to give your dog a bad name.
The best solution is a durable harness for dogs. A no-pull harness is better than a leash, especially in an enclosed space like a home. With a dog harness (like a no-pull harness), your pet will be presentable but not uncomfortable. The best harness will be lightweight with good padding and keep your dog’s head from getting hurt if you rein it in. With a vest-style harness, your dog’s chest is comfortable, and you can pull your dog in without too much pressure.
A front-clip harness can give you better control when managing a dog pull indoors. When you buy a dog harness, ensure it’s a durable material, has a snug fit, and different points of adjustment. Any extra padding will help keep your dog’s skin from getting pulled. Also, check for a front leash attachment. A reflective strip is suitable for night walks, and the right puller won’t injure your dog’s head. If you have a new dog or pet, ask a trainer to teach them to have better control of their actions indoors.
Paper Proof.
Think of your pet as your roommate. As well-behaved as your pet may seem, sellers and landlords need more proof. A great option is to write up the same information for your pet that you would for yourself. With a few tweaks, of course. Note the breed, attach proof of veterinarian visits, vaccines, and any health issues. Ask previous landlords and roommates to give your dog letters of recommendation.
If you have a new dog, ask a trainer to vouch for its behavior on paper. And, put in writing that you will keep a dog collar on your puppy. Also, offer to put them on a leash or pull harness outdoors. Once the agent or landlord sees a well-behaved dog, you’re one step closer to your dream home. The more written proof you have, the less of an obstacle finding the right home will be.
Monetary Incentives.
Is your top pick the perfect home for your new puppy, but not yet pet-friendly? Sometimes, all you need to do is offer to pay a little extra to ensure you can bring your pets. You pay a deposit for yourself, how about one for your pet? Not everyone can afford to do this, but it is the best solution. It’s an especially good way to find a home to rent.
If you’re buying a home, offer to pay your realtor a pet fee. If neighbors and the surrounding community are an issue, offer to put up a pet fence. Pet safety features in and around your home will add extra comfort for your pet too. And, they will help you find a pet-friendly home without an issue.
