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The five key features of a pet-friendly home revealed: Money.com.au
September 11, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
With nearly 70% of Australian households owning a pet, it’s no wonder that more and more homebuyers are prioritising a pet-friendly home that caters to the needs of their furry companions.
As pet ownership in Australia continues to rise, pets have become a central part of family life, real estate choices are shifting to reflect the growing demand for pet-friendly homes.
According to a recent analysis by Money.com.au, there are five key features pet owners look for when searching for their ideal home.
1. Solid fencing: safety and peace of mind
A secure backyard is essential for any pet owner, with solid fencing taking the top spot on the list of must-haves. Mansour Soltani, a property expert from Money.com.au, emphasises the importance of fencing for keeping pets safe.
“A grassed backyard, proximity to parks, and certain pet-friendly features can make a home more appealing to pet owners and even boost its market value,” says Soltani.
However, the benefits of solid fencing go beyond safety. According to Dr Grace Thurtell, Resident in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine, solid fencing also helps manage pets’ behaviour by blocking out distractions.
“A solid fence blocks the view of the outside world, minimising distractions like passing cars, people, or other animals that might excite or agitate pets.
“This allows them to enjoy their space and activities without being constantly on alert, and it can even prevent excessive barking—something your neighbours will appreciate.”
2. A grassed area: a natural playground
Pets need room to play and explore, making a grassed area, even a small one, a crucial feature. While large backyards are a dream for many, smaller grassed areas can still offer pets an outdoor space to engage with nature.
“Grass allows pets to engage in their natural behaviours, such as sniffing, which provides important mental stimulation,” explains Dr Thurtell.
“It also stays cooler than hard surfaces in the summer, preventing pets from overheating or burning their paws on materials like concrete or gravel.”
This natural cooling effect, along with the opportunity for pets to run and explore, makes a grassed area a valuable asset for any pet owner, even if space is limited.
3. Hard-wearing flooring: durable and pet-proof
Durable flooring is another priority for pet owners, as pets can be tough on surfaces with their claws, fur, and accidents. Hardwood, tile, and laminate floors are popular choices for their scratch resistance and ease of cleaning. These materials are also well-suited for potty training young pets.
“Be mindful, though, that dogs with long hair, like Poodle mixes or Shih Tzus, can slip on hard floors,” warns Dr. Thurtell. For older dogs, laying down rugs or runners can provide extra traction, helping to prevent slips and falls on slick surfaces.
4. Local dog parks: location matters
When it comes to location, pet owners often prioritise proximity to dog parks and green spaces just as much as they consider school zones or commute times. Easy access to outdoor areas where pets can exercise, socialise, and burn off energy is a huge draw for homebuyers, especially first-home buyers and millennials.
“Homebuyers with dogs often prioritise properties within walking distance of dog parks or trails,” says Soltani. These green spaces not only provide an outlet for pets but also offer pet owners a chance to connect with their community.
5. Open-plan living: space for pets to roam
An open-plan interior layout is ideal for households with pets, offering more room for animals to roam freely.
Homes with features like built-in pet doors and single-level layouts are especially appealing to owners of older pets or pets with mobility issues.
“A well-designed pet door can give pets some independence and make life easier for their owners,” notes Dr. Thurtell. “It’s particularly valuable for dog owners who want to give their pets the freedom to go outside whenever they need to.”
Final thoughts: homes designed with pets in mind
As pet ownership in Australia continues to rise , so too does the demand for homes that accommodate the needs of both pets and their owners. From solid fencing that ensures safety and reduces distractions to open-plan layouts that give pets space to move, these five features are now high on the checklist for pet owners entering the property market.
For those in search of the perfect property, the right mix of pet-friendly features could not only enhance daily living but also boost a home’s market appeal. “With more pet owners factoring their furry friends into their home-buying decisions, properties that tick these boxes are likely to attract more interest and potentially higher value,” concludes Soltani.
If you’re a pet owner looking for your dream home, these tips can help you find a space where both you and your pets can thrive.
About Money.com.au
Money.com.au is an Australian financial comparison platform founded by industry experts in 2019. Its goal is to provide people and businesses with financial education and access to
financial products. Expert insights come from Mansour Soltani, a finance broker with over 20 years of experience and Dr Grace Thurtell, a Resident in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine.
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