Pet-Friendly Living – Finding the Perfect Home for You and Your Furry Friends
Our pets are an extended part of our families. We want what’s best for them, and a pet-friendly living situation is just one of the things we need to consider when searching for a home. Whether buying or leasing, not every broker has your pet’s best interest in mind. Therefore, it’s important that you know what to evaluate to ensure that your home is perfect for both you and your loyal companions. Here are some ways to identify a neighborhood that is sure to get your pet’s tail wagging!
Pet-Friendly Stores
The easiest way to know if your new home will accommodate pet-friendly living is to scout the area you’re looking in for stores and services related to pets. It’s essential that the needs of your pets can be met easily. You may want to look for pet supply stores, groomers, and veterinarians nearby. Additionally, see if there are any pet-friendly parks around the neighborhood! This is a great way to ensure they’re getting fresh air and exercise. They may even meet some friends (and you might, too)!
Review the HOA Rules
If you’re looking in neighborhoods that have Homeowners Associations (HOA’s), you’ll need to look at their guidelines regarding pet ownership. Some communities prohibit pets completely, while others may have restrictions based on the size and/or breed of your pet. Failure to adhere to HOA protocol could result in consequences including fines, liens, evictions, and more. Therefore, it’s important to read the fine print before you move in! If you’re renting and there’s not an HOA, be sure to discuss your pets with your potential landlord.
Scout the Neighborhood
Online research is great, but sometimes the best research is done in person. Take the time to tour the area and identify some features that may be indicative of pet-friendly living. For example, a community with lots of sidewalks could make walks much easier and pet waste stations can showcase a community geared towards pets. The most pet-accessible neighborhoods may even have water stations! Look for lighting, too. An area with a lot of lampposts and streetlights will make evening walks more manageable for both you and your pet. If you have a pet that loves to explore, fencing may also be something to look for. There may be fenced, open, grassy areas nearby for your animal to run.
Firsthand Accounts
These days, it’s easier than ever to access opinions on residential properties from pet owners themselves. Apps such as Nextdoor and Neighbors by Ring give homeowners a voice to talk about what happens in their communities. Often, you can gain insight into how pet-friendly a neighborhood is just by reading through posts. If you have specific questions, you could be even more direct and ask a friendly neighbor out walking their dog. They’ll likely be more than happy to help you out. Additionally, there’s a good chance they will provide an honest account of any complaints or concerns.
Public Transportation
If you live in an area where public transportation is accessible, it may be helpful to see if pets are allowed on board! Particularly in cities or more urban areas, public transport can provide an easy and convenient way for you and your pet to travel to appointments, run errands, and more!
Now that you know what to look out for, it’s time to find the right realtor! At Paradise Breeze, we know a thing or two about locating the perfect pet-friendly living accommodations for you and your animals! Take a look at our current available listings and short-term rental options and reach out today to get the hunt underway for your perfect, pet-friendly piece of paradise!