Renters with Fur Babies: How To Buy a Home You'll Both Love!

If you're a pet owner, it's important to think ahead about any issues that may cause unexpected problems as you and your pets adjust to your new home. From county ordinances to HOA restrictions, there are a lot of factors to consider. But don't worry; we've got you covered. Check out these tips to help you make the right choice when shopping for a home for you and your pet.

Check County and City Pet Ordinances

Before putting in an offer, be sure to check into county and city pet ordinances. Does the county or city have a leash law requiring you to keep your pet leashed in public spaces? Are there any breed restrictions? Knowing the local laws ahead of time will help you avoid any potential problems down the road.

Does Your Pet Require a Fenced-In Yard? 

If your pet requires a fenced-in yard, be sure to look for homes that already have one—or that have enough space to build one. A fenced-in yard gives your pet the freedom to run and play without having to worry about them getting lost or running into traffic. 

Is The Home Part Of An HOA, and Are There Any Pet Restrictions? 

If you're moving into a neighborhood with a homeowner association, be sure to find out if there are any pet restrictions in place. Some HOAs have breed or size restrictions, so it's important to know what (if any) pets you'll be able to have before making an offer. 

Will You Need To Update The Flooring? How Much WIll It Cost?

If you have pets, you'll want to think about what type of flooring will work best for them. Accidents can easily stain carpets, while nails can scratch hardwood floors. If certain types of flooring work best for your pet, make sure to add the cost of updating the flooring into your budget. 

Think Through How Your Pets Will Use the Home’s Layout 

When looking at homes, it's important to think through how your pets will use the layout of the house. For example, if your pet gets nervous around visitors, an open floor plan might not be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you have cats that like to hide away in small spaces, a home with lots of nooks and crannies might be perfect for them.

Also, think about how stairs would affect your pet. Larger breeds and older dogs can develop sensitive joints, so a home with lots of stairs may prove too difficult for them to get around, 

Are Pet Services Friendly and Local? 

Ffind out what kind of pet services are available in the area. Do local businesses allow dogs inside? Are there any dog parks nearby? Access to these amenities will make life much easier for you and your pets—so it's worth doing some research ahead of time. 

How Will You Plan for Exercise? 

Last but not least, you'll need to think about how you'll exercise your pets once you move into your new home. If you have a large yard, that might not be an issue—but if not, you'll need to make sure there's a nearby park or walking trail where you can take them on a daily basis. Planning for pet exercise is an important part of making sure they stay happy and healthy in their new home. 

Moving with pets doesn't have to be stressful! By taking some time to plan ahead and research local ordinances and regulations, you can make sure both you and your furry friends are prepared for anything. With a little advance planning, everyone can settle into the new home quickly and enjoy all that life offers!