Article provided by Cindy Aldridge
Finding the ideal house to buy can be challenging, and for pet owners, there are additional issues they need to take care of. You need a home that meets your needs and fits your budget as well, but you also have to consider your pets' needs. Safety and comfort are vital priorities, but you'll also have to think of the yard size, location, neighborhood, and whether there's a fence surrounding the property. Fortunately, the process can be much easier by considering a few things before starting the house-hunting process.
House Hunting with Your Pet in Mind
House hunting is much easier when you work with a real estate agent, so make sure you contact one in the area you want to move to. If you're interested in relocating to the Rancho Carrillo community in California, consider hiring Devore Realty Group as your agent. As you start analyzing the home prices in the area and compare them, you should keep in mind that you might need to compromise a bit to ensure that you're getting the property you, your family, and your pet deserve. For instance, if you keep in mind that the average house price in Carlsbad is approximately $1.2M, it can help you get an insight into what to expect and how you can make changes to your budget.
As mentioned, when looking for a house to buy, you need to make it a point in searching for a home that has lawn space. This will be beneficial during the colder months when it's challenging to walk your pet a few times a day as it will allow him to be physically active in the safety of your property. Also, pinpoint houses that have a fence because if there's a specific regulation in the area, you might be prohibited from putting one yourself.
The location of the home is also essential. If your pet loves to spend time outdoors or likes to sneak out every chance he gets, consider buying a property in a quiet area, away from a busy street. Another aspect you need to think of is whether the neighborhood is pet-friendly. Visit it and look around for fenced-in yards, people walking their pets, or any signs that animals live there. You also need to decide how much moving help you need and look for and hire a moving company to make your job easier. Make sure to declutter and donate or throw away stuff you no longer need and organize everything you want to keep.
Planning for the Moving Day
Moving either locally or long distance is difficult for many people, but for pets who cannot understand the change taking place, a move is highly stressful. Before the move, you need to take a few steps to ensure that your pet is safe, not stressed, and comfortable. First, make sure you update your pet's microchip data and ID tags. Then, retrieve copies of the veterinary records, refill your pet's medications if needed, find a new veterinarian, and arrange pet boarding for the moving day.
While you prepare to move, consider asking someone you trust to keep your pet safe during all the activity, especially if you are relocating somewhere relatively close to your current place. If you're moving long-distance, you'll need to find the best way to travel with your pet and make a few trials to help him get used to traveling. When moving, make sure you pack his favorite toy to help him feel more relaxed and reduce the moving anxiety.
The Bottom Line
House-hunting and moving to another place doesn't have to be a stressful experience, neither for you nor for your pet. With some planning, a little help from a realtor, and a bit of research on your part, you'll find the ideal home to move to in no time.