Are you looking to make a move but you have pets that you need to take into consideration? When a pet lover turns into a home buyer, they act like they have true human kids to regard as. Like parents who research the best school districts when considering neighborhoods in which to shop for a home, home buyers with pets have specific requirements, too. Below are 10 buying tips when you need to think about what your pets will love:

1) Check Country & City Code Restrictions

Many cities restrict the number and types of pets allowed within city limits.

2) Read Home Owner Association Documents

Not every homeowner association allows pets and if they do, most likely the association bylaws will address restrictions on numbers, types, sizes, heights, noise factors and whether pets are allowed to freely roam the area.

3) Consider the Home’s Features

* A Sacramento buyer was adamant that she would not buy a home with carpeting. She wanted a home for her Schnauzer with wood or ceramic floors throughout and did not want to deal with ripping up carpeting.
* Perhaps an outdoor faucet is important for bathing your dog? If so, check to make sure the home has exterior faucets; it’s an easy thing to overlook.

4) Examine the Home’s Layout

Aging pets might have trouble climbing stairs, so for some home buyers with senior pets, a single-story home is ideal. Cats like windows, and those with window ledges or low to the ground are preferred by felines.

5) Inspect Street Traffic

Sometimes, even the most well behaved dogs bolt when the front door is opened. Cats are inquisitive, and a curious cat can find a way to push open a screen door to get outside. To prevent tragedy, it’s better to pass on buying a home that is located on or near a busy thoroughfare.

6) Ask About Previous Pets in House

If the seller is selling a home where pets live, check for the following:

* pet damage, especially under rugs
* backs of doors for scratches or gouges
* pet accidents
* fleas in the house

7) Find Out if the Neighborhood is Pet Friendly

Drive around the area to see if you can spot neighbors outside walking their dogs or notice cats sleeping in sunny windows. Look for community-placed receptacles for waste deposits.

Locate Pet Services

If you are buying a home in a new area, ask your agent and the neighbors for referrals to pet vendors. Ask where you can find the best:

* Pet food store
* Veterinary clinic
* Doggie day care center
* Pet sitter
* Groomer

9) Search for Local Dog Park

A great way to meet your neighbors and make new friends is at the local dog park. Here are few questions to ask about the dog park:

* Will you be expected to keep your dog on a leash?
* Are dogs encouraged to play with one another and socialize?
* Who maintains the park?
* Does the park provide stations and containers for picking up after your dog?
* Are you restricted from going to the park during certain hours of the day?

10) Is the Yard Fenced?

If the yard does not have a fence, and you want to provide a safe play area for your pets, find out how much it will cost to construct your own fence. If the home has an existing fence, make sure it is gated, the gate latches, and the fence is high enough so your dog can’t jump over it. Inspect for loose fence boards that may need to be replaced.