When making decisions about buying, selling or renovating their homes, Americans, by and large, take their pets' needs into account, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors. The 2017 Animal House: Remodeling Impact report found that 81 percent of respondents said animal-related considerations play a role when deciding on their next living situation.
"It is important to understand the unique needs and wants of animal owners when it comes to homeownership," said William Brown, president of the National Association of Realtors. "Realtors understand that when someone buys a home, they are buying it with the needs of their whole family in mind."
According to the survey, 99 percent of pet owners said they consider their animal part of the family. It is apparent in the sacrifices pet owners are willing to make when it comes to buying and selling homes. Eighty-nine percent of those surveyed said they would not give up their animal because of housing restrictions or limitations. Twelve percent of pet owners have moved to accommodate their animal, while 19 percent said they would consider moving to accommodate their animal in the future.
Realtors who were surveyed indicated one-third of their pet-owning clients often or very often will refuse to make an offer on a home because it is not ideal for their animal. Realtors also noted 61 percent of buyers find it difficult or very difficult to locate a rental property or a homeowners association that accommodates animals.
"Pets are part of the family. I have seen clients pass on a property that did not have sufficient space for their dogs. We must respect the emotional role an animal has in a person's life," said Denise Welsh, president of the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors. "A home purchase is a lifestyle choice and pets are part of one's life."
Fifty-two percent of all survey respondents said they had completed a home renovation project specifically to accommodate their animal. Of those who undertook projects, 23 percent built a fence around their yard; 12 percent added a dog door; and 10 percent installed laminate flooring.
When it comes to the enjoyment, homeowners gain from these projects. Fencing in a yard and installing laminated floors rated highest. Adding a dog door came in a close second.
A majority of surveyed animal owners (83 percent) indicated they own a dog, which helps explain the overwhelming popularity of dog-related renovation projects. Forty-three percent of those surveyed said they own a cat; 9 percent own a bird, reptile, amphibian, arthropod, small mammal, or miniature horse; 8 percent a fish; and 5 percent own a farm animal.
The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® (SILVAR) is a professional trade organization representing over 4,000 REALTORS® and Affiliate members engaged in the real estate business on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. SILVAR promotes the highest ethical standards of real estate practice, serves as an advocate for homeownership and homeowners, and represents the interests of property owners in Silicon Valley.
The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and who subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
Variations of this article have appeared in local area newspapers.
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