Over the past few months, I have answered real estate questions posed by the San Francisco Chronicle and
SF Gate. Here are a few of those editorial Q & A’s.
What Role Do a Buyer’s Pet or Pets Play in the Home-Buying Process?
Homebuyers really do take into consideration their canine, feline, or other pets when deciding to purchase a home. Oftentimes, condominiums have a pet limit and size restriction; thus, a Home Buyer would not opt to purchase a condo should that be the case, and be more likely to purchase a home which is not governed by an HOA.
Home-buyers consider their pets part of the family, so when it comes to making a big life decision such as purchasing a home, they will give their real estate agent certain criteria that fit both their needs and those of their pets. Here are a few examples of the sorts of amenities dog owners may seek: a fenced-in yard is number one; they want to be sure Fido is safe from escape. Sidewalks might be a consideration, so when it is time to walk the dog, there is a safe place to walk for both the canine and his/her owner. Other pluses might include being within close proximity to a park, pet stores, a pet hospital, and/or a groomer. All of these amenities are not so different than when a Home Buyer is purchasing a home with their family, the amenities are similar to those who have children.