Homebuyer must-haves: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and ... a dog park?

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Published Date 9/28/2021

While one pop singer sang about how it’s all about that bass, ‘bout that bass, Realtors these days are singing a new tune. Because as far as their home buying clients go, it’s all about those pets, ‘bout those pets.

The pandemic caused a huge surge in pet ownership, which means homebuyers are looking for options like a wood look tile floor, larger laundry rooms, and a safe and spacious backyard, according to OKCFox’s Mireya Garcia, who says communities are even starting to create some neighborhood-wide outdoor amenities for pets.

"Developers are recognizing that people are pet owners, and they want to have spaces for their pets. They are buying homes with their pets in mind," says one Oklahoma-based Realtor, who walked Garcia through an outdoor dog park in one community. She says this kind of amenity is newer, but she expects it to become more popular as home buyers see the option.

Pet amenities are now tipping the buyer wishlist scales. “If a home buyer likes two homes, but one works better for their pet, it could be the deciding factor,” says Garcia. That means the big backyard WITH a fence is a huge priority, whether it’s already there or must be built before move-in. According to Garcia, Realtors are now writing that into their purchase offers.

Felines? “If you have cats, items like a sunroom or a larger laundry space could be a must,” says Garcia. Even using a mudroom as the designated litter box space could be a difference-maker when home buyers are trying to decide between homes.

So if you consider your next home a refuge not only for you, but for your pets as well, no Realtor will raise an eyebrow when you let them know up front about your requirements. Man’s best friends are a true priority.

OKCFox, TBWS

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