The demand for pet-friendly properties is no longer a niche preference but a significant factor influencing buying decisions. As nearly half of South African adults are pet owners, with approximately 78% owning dogs, the integration of pet considerations into property choices has become increasingly prevalent.
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The rise of pet-centric homebuyers
Modern homebuyers are prioritising their pets' needs alongside traditional factors like location and security. Features such as secure fencing, proximity to pet-friendly amenities, and dedicated pet spaces are now high on the checklist. Developments in Johannesburg’s Northern Suburbs exemplify this trend, offering expansive green spaces and pet-friendly facilities that cater to the holistic needs of pet-owning families.
Lifestyle estates leading the way
Lifestyle estates across South Africa are increasingly accommodating pet owners. Estates such as Val de Vie in Paarl have implemented pet-friendly policies, recognising the importance of pets in family life. These developments often include amenities like walking trails and communal parks, enhancing the living experience for both residents and their pets.
Navigating challenges in sectional titles
Despite the growing demand, pet-friendly accommodations in sectional title developments remain limited. Many complexes enforce strict no-pet policies, citing concerns over space and potential nuisances. This scarcity has led to increased competition for pet-approving properties, with some buyers willing to pay a premium for such accommodations.
READ: Create a pet-friendly garden and add value to your property
The rental market's pet predicament
The rental sector faces similar challenges, with a notable shortage of pet-friendly options. Landlords often hesitate to allow pets due to potential property damage, further constraining choices for pet-owning tenants. This gap in the market presents an opportunity for property owners to cater to this underserved demographic, potentially commanding higher rents and longer tenancy durations.
John Herbst, CEO of Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), observes, "The integration of pet-friendly features in properties is not only a trend but a reflection of changing societal values. Homebuyers are increasingly viewing their pets as integral family members, influencing their property choices accordingly."
The emphasis on pet-friendly living is reshaping South Africa's real estate market. Developers and property owners who recognise and adapt to this shift are likely to meet the evolving demands of modern homebuyers, ensuring their offerings remain relevant and appealing in a competitive landscape.
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Seeff shares guidelines to ensure your home is pet-friendly and your pets are not a nuisance to neighbours:
1. Size of the dog
It is important to remember that bigger dog breeds require big yards or gardens on top of having access to areas where these dogs can be exercised. Small- and medium-sized breeds are usually fine for small yards and complexes, but a bigger dog will definitely need a bigger yard.
2. Responsible pet ownership
It is important to ensure that your pets are micro-chipped in case they get out of your property. Spaying your animals is another important aspect, and also assists in preventing roaming in some instances.
3. Noisy dogs, straying cats
These are some of the biggest bones to pick amongst neighbours, especially in sectional schemes. If you are moving from a full title house and have a dog which is used to more yard space, moving to a complex with a tiny yard might be a problem for your pet.
4. Check the complex rules
Even pet-friendly complexes still have rules of conduct. Be sure to check these in addition to obtaining permission for your pet/s. Remember, the complex would be quite entitled to force you to get rid of your pets if they are a nuisance to neighbours.
5. Pet-friendly house rules
There are many innovations for pet owners such pet doors to allow them easy access into and out of the home. Other innovations include built-in feeding bowls and water systems, odourless cat litter and so on. You even create a special wash area with a shower hose.
6. Sitters and groomers
If you are going away, you no longer need to take your pets to a kennel, but can get a pet sitter to stay in your home and look after your pets. Mobile groomers are another marvel of modern living and spare you a rather stressful trip to the groomers.
7. Moving tips
Cats are much harder to acclimatise and should be kept indoors for a period until they become used to the smells. Dogs are also territorial and would need to be kept in a secure area. It’s best to move our pets last, so that they can pick up on the old home smells in the new house.
8. Buy in a pet-friendly complex and neighbourhood
If you are a pet lover, then ensure that you buy or rent in a pet-friendly neighbourhood. A concrete jungle is, for example, not conducive to owning a dog, rather opt for a neighbourhood with more greenery and facilities suitable to dogs.
9. Pet-friendly finishes and furnishings
Think of your finishes and furnishings if you intend on being a pet owner. Dogs run around, and so hard-wearing floors such as tiles are probably better than carpets in the main areas. Stay clear of white couches and train your pets on how to behave in the home.
10. Odours and allergies
Invest in a good pet vacuum and ensure all hairs and other debris are vacuumed thoroughly on a regular basis. Air out the property daily to ensure that it is free from pet odours. Water, food bowls and litter boxes should also be cleaned daily.
11. Pet-friendly gardens
Be mindful that there are some plants which are toxic to animals including some of the most common houseplants such as Mistletoe, Philodendron and Poinsettia. Be mindful too of flowers which attract a lot of bees. Rather keep your garden as pet-friendly as possible.
12. Show houses and pets
When you put your house on the market, remember to clean and air it out. Not all buyers are pet lovers and poor pet conditions, cat hairs and pet odours can be very off-putting. It is also best to take your pets with you on the show days to enable your agent to show your property in its best possible condition.
READ: Create a pet-friendly garden and add value to your property
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