When it comes to buying a new home, what are your deal-breakers? Do you want a majestic view, your dream kitchen, or an in-ground pool? For many pet owners, these factors are lower priorities. A recent survey reported that 75 percent of pet owners would decline to purchase their dream home if it wasn’t a good fit for their pets. The younger the homebuyer, the more likely they were to value their pets’ needs over their own.

As more Millennial and Generation Z homebuyers enter the real estate market, pet-friendly housing is essential. If you own pets and are on the hunt for a home, keep these considerations in mind.

House Hunting

As a pet owner, you’re not just hunting for a future home for yourself. You must also keep your pet’s best interests in mind. According to Realtor.com, many pet owners prioritize these characteristics when purchasing a home:

• Outdoor space. If you have a cat or other pet that stays indoors, this might not be a deal-breaker for you. However, if you own a dog or other pet that spends time outdoors, you might prefer a property with a large yard or other outdoor areas.
• Square footage. Again, an indoor cat might do just fine in a smaller space. However, you won’t want to cram your Great Dane into a teensy high-rise condominium. Focus on home sizes suited to your specific pet and breed.
• Pet restrictions. If a home belongs to a homeowners’ association (HOA), double-check for any pet restrictions before making an offer. You don’t want to purchase a gorgeous home only to realize your German Shepherd won’t be allowed to come home with you. HOAs, insurance companies, and certain states restrict pets by breed, weight, and other factors so do your homework before buying.
• Dog-friendly play areas. All dogs need some amount of physical activity. Will your new home provide proximity to a pet-friendly park or dog run? In urban areas with scarce greenspace, doggie daycares or indoor dog parks offer another healthy option for your pup.
• Flooring. Make sure floors are sturdy and easy to clean. You might opt for hardwood over carpets, for instance.

Moving

Once you’ve found the purrfect place, it’s time to plan your move! Whether you’re moving long-distance or just two streets over, it’s crucial to keep your pet safe and happy on moving day. Start by reducing your pet’s anxiety before, during, and after the move. Even though moving can be stressful, the New York Times recommends maintaining a calm attitude whenever possible. Our pets sense our emotions and, if you’re yelling or feeling anxious, your pet will feel stressed, too.

On moving day, secure your pet in a back room so he can’t dart outside. You might even hire a top-rated nearby pet sitter to keep an eye on your pet during the move. That way, you can focus on move-related tasks that require your attention.

Settling into Your New Home

To reduce stress when it’s time to get in the car, invest in a pet harness, dog seatbelt, or pet carrier. It’s ideal to decide how you’ll safely transport your pet to your new home ahead of time for one less worry on moving day. When you arrive at your new place, have some new treats and toys along with your pet’s favorite items from your old home to help ease the transition.

For instance, if you have a cat, you might purchase a new toy or cat tree, or place some of his favorite treats inside the cat carrier or throughout your new home. For safety reasons, always be sure to read product reviews and customer testimonials before purchasing any new items for cats, dogs, and other pets.

Moving involves a lot of logistics. However, it’s worth it once you’re settled into your new home with your beloved pet. With some planning, you can reduce the amount of stress and anxiety you and your pet experience during the move. Your attention to detail will help your pet feel more comfortable before, during, and after the move. Best of all, your extra planning helps ensure you purchase the perfect home for both yourself and your furry companion.