{"id":416,"date":"2025-11-01T23:35:36","date_gmt":"2025-11-01T23:35:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=416"},"modified":"2025-11-01T23:35:36","modified_gmt":"2025-11-01T23:35:36","slug":"from-dog-washes-to-fenced-yards-how-pets-are-redefining-homebuyer-priorities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=416","title":{"rendered":"From dog washes to fenced yards, how pets are redefining homebuyer priorities"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/americanpetproducts.org\/news\/the-american-pet-products-association-appa-releases-2025-state-of-the-industry-report\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:American Pet Products Association;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">American Pet Products Association<\/a>, 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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">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&#8217;s overall value.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"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.\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"724\" height=\"1086\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/rpFntkfErrSMWcBRfFcBrw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTE0NDA7Y2Y9d2VicA--\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/detroit_free_press_natl_articles_245\/96b17a1c4b6bf84c38c3be8ec220762f\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">\u201cPets are their children,\u201d said Andre Abney of Match Realty in Detroit, describing how devoted many of his clients are to their animals. \u201cI know people who\u2019ve 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\u2019t have to be caged or left to roam the whole house and get into things.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Pet safety is also a top priority for many buyers.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">&#8220;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,&#8221; said Dylan Tent of Signature Sotheby&#8217;s International Realty in Northville. &#8220;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.&#8221;<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Built-in pet feeding bowls with pull-out food storage.\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"724\" height=\"1086\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/WuBAUWiASaBujeYh6RWzDw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTE0NDA7Y2Y9d2VicA--\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/detroit_free_press_natl_articles_245\/253c99ceb7f35750c565d78c5efc64d2\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>Built-in pet feeding bowls with pull-out food storage.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">It\u2019s also worth noting that fewer buyers today have young children at home.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nar.realtor\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:National Association of Realtors;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">National Association of Realtors<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">And Americans aren\u2019t just owning more pets, they\u2019re spending more time with them. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/tus\/tables.htm\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Bureau of Labor Statistics;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> 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%.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Pet-friendly features<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Some of the features that appeal to pet owners include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"mb-4\">\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Fenced yards<\/strong>: Offer peace of mind, privacy, and a safe play space.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Durable flooring<\/strong>: Laminate, vinyl, or scratch-resistant hardwood makes cleanup easy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Feeding stations and pet nooks<\/strong>: Built-in food bowl areas or under-stair dens, or cozy spots make pets feel at home.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Pet bath stations<\/strong>: A waist-high shower in a laundry or mudroom simplifies rinse-offs and keeps dirt contained.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Dog doors<\/strong>: A secure, weather-sealed door to the backyard adds convenience for both pets and owners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Invisible or wireless fence<\/strong>: An electric fence system allows pets to play safely outdoors without the need for traditional fencing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><strong>Location perks<\/strong>: Sidewalks, trails, and dog parks nearby are always a plus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><span class=\"exclude-from-newsgate\"><strong>More: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.freep.com\/story\/money\/business\/2025\/10\/20\/asking-prices-hudsons-site-condos-detroit\/86799012007\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Prices for Hudson's site luxury condos would set Detroit record;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Prices for Hudson&#8217;s site luxury condos would set Detroit record<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"A pet bath station for rinsing off a dog.\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/8z3cWNicL0lAcPk8BGqMuw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/detroit_free_press_natl_articles_245\/9dce58dc1aa7d5802f0b4109f19fe771\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-3 right-3 size-10 md:size-[50px] lg:inset-0 lg:size-full lg:bg-transparent\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-0 right-0 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed inset-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>A pet bath station for rinsing off a dog.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">As pets continue to play a bigger role in family life, homes that cater to them are more appealing than ever. Whether you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em>Brendel Clark (previously published as Brendel Hightower) writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at\u00a0bclark@freepress.com.<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em>This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.freep.com\/story\/money\/real-estate\/2025\/10\/31\/homebuyers-now-shop-with-pets-in-mind-not-just-bedrooms-and-baths\/86585327007\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Homebuyers now shop with pets in mind. Not just bedrooms and baths;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Homebuyers now shop with pets in mind. Not just bedrooms and baths<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":417,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-416","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pets-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/416","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=416"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/416\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/417"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=416"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=416"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=416"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}