More people today have pets than children, and that shift is showing up in how buyers shop for homes. Instead of just counting bedrooms and bathrooms, many buyers are looking for homes that fit their lifestyle and that includes the needs of their pets.
According to the American Pet Products Association, 71% of households own a pet, with dogs and cats topping the list. These four-legged family members are shaping the way homes are designed to neighborhood choices.
Features that make life easier for pets and their people can make a big difference when selling a home. A fenced yard, durable flooring, or a nearby park can instantly catch the eye of pet owners scrolling through listings.
While some of these features can add to the cost of a home, most buyers view them as worthwhile upgrades that can increase the home’s overall value.
Built-in pet feeding station with two bowls set into the platform, and a faucet so the water bowl can be easily refilled without carrying it to the sink. The shelves above can be used to store pet food, treats, or accessories.
“Pets are their children,” said Andre Abney of Match Realty in Detroit, describing how devoted many of his clients are to their animals. “I know people who’ve dedicated an entire room just for their dog with toys, a bed, and a space for when the owners are away. That way, the dog doesn’t have to be caged or left to roam the whole house and get into things.”
Pet safety is also a top priority for many buyers.
“Pet safety is often discussed at showings, and people may skip a great house that has a challenging or dangerous lot for pets and children,” said Dylan Tent of Signature Sotheby’s International Realty in Northville. “A home is just as much for the pets as it is to the owners these days and furry friends are taken into consideration more than ever.”
Built-in pet feeding bowls with pull-out food storage.
It’s also worth noting that fewer buyers today have young children at home.
The National Association of Realtors reports that in 1985, 58% of homebuyers had children under the age of 18. By 2024, that number dropped to just 27%, an all-time low. That means more buyers are free to focus on space that work for their pets, hobbies, and overall lifestyle.
And Americans aren’t just owning more pets, they’re spending more time with them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the average amount of time people spend with their pets each day has gone up from 0.62 hours in 2003 to 0.73 hours in 2023. The percentage of people who spend time with their pets daily has also jumped from 13% to more than 20%.
Pet-friendly features
Some of the features that appeal to pet owners include:
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Fenced yards: Offer peace of mind, privacy, and a safe play space.
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Durable flooring: Laminate, vinyl, or scratch-resistant hardwood makes cleanup easy.
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Feeding stations and pet nooks: Built-in food bowl areas or under-stair dens, or cozy spots make pets feel at home.
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Pet bath stations: A waist-high shower in a laundry or mudroom simplifies rinse-offs and keeps dirt contained.
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Dog doors: A secure, weather-sealed door to the backyard adds convenience for both pets and owners.
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Invisible or wireless fence: An electric fence system allows pets to play safely outdoors without the need for traditional fencing.
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Location perks: Sidewalks, trails, and dog parks nearby are always a plus.
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A pet bath station for rinsing off a dog.
As pets continue to play a bigger role in family life, homes that cater to them are more appealing than ever. Whether you’re buying, selling, or updating your space, a few thoughtful pet-friendly touches can go a long way toward winning the hearts of buyers and their furry companions.
Brendel Clark (previously published as Brendel Hightower) writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at bclark@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Homebuyers now shop with pets in mind. Not just bedrooms and baths