Buyers • March 31, 2026

10 Important People in the Home Buying Process

by Don Koonce

It takes a village to purchase a home. Though it’s ultimately you who is paying for the property, successfully purchasing a home is a result of several people’s contributions. It helps to know who these individuals are, how they responsibilities pertain to your home purchase, and when you’ll encounter them during your journey. Here are ten important people to keep in mind during the process of buying a home.

10 Important People in the Home Buying Process

1. Real Estate Agent

You’ll be represented by a buyer’s agent throughout the home buying process. Their access to resources and their specialized knowledge will help you find the home you’re looking for and make an offer to the seller. They will be by your side from day one, through closing and beyond. When searching for a real estate agent, ask questions to gain an understanding of their professional expertise as well as their personality. You’ll be working closely together throughout the process, so it’s important to identify someone who is compatible.

2. Mortgage Lender

You need financing to buy a home. Mortgage lenders offer different home loans to match what buyers can afford and what homes they’re looking to purchase. After identifying which lender you’d like to work with, a helpful first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage by submitting financial information for their review. This helps to speed up the home buying process and solidifies your offer by demonstrating that you’re ready to buy.

3. Mortgage Broker

Your mortgage broker will work with you to find favorable mortgage terms for your home loan. Whereas your real estate agent works with you to find a home and communicates with the seller on your behalf, your mortgage broker works on the financial side of the transaction. Once you’ve chosen the right loan product, they’ll hand things off to the lender.

4. Underwriter

Another key player in the mortgage process is the underwriter. Underwriters review mortgage applications, looking at credit history to assess your ability to pay your loan. A mortgage loan doesn’t get the green light without an underwriter’s approval; if they find any issues, they’ll either deny the loan or require the applicant to provide more information before deciding.

5. Home Inspector

The home inspection is key to the home buying process. It gives you a chance to get a thorough examination of the home to discover which repairs need addressing, if any. The findings of the home inspector’s report will set the table for continued negotiations with the seller and their agent. Buyers will often include a home inspection contingency in their offer to allow for renegotiation or canceling the contract entirely.

Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: Jupiter Images

6. Home Appraiser

A professional appraiser will determine a home’s appraised value, which ensures that the lender is loaning the correct amount of money. Home appraisers are third parties to real estate transactions; they have no vested interest in either side of the deal. The home’s square footage, features, and condition all factor into their assessment. If there’s a discrepancy between a home’s appraised value and the loan amount, you and the seller will go back into negotiations.

7. Seller

It takes two to tango. The seller is your counterpart in the home buying process, and they want to sell their home for the best price to the right buyer. Accordingly, you’ll work with your agent on how to make an offer that’s most appealing to the seller. This looks different for each real estate transaction. For example, if you find yourself in a bidding war, the seller may value offers that show flexibility toward the inspection and contingencies. Talk to your agent for more information.

8. Listing Agent

The listing agent represents the seller. Your agent will work with them to iron out the details of your offer and move the deal along toward completion. After the home inspection, the listing agent will also be the main point of contact for any repair requests.

9. Title Company

Before the home is officially yours, a title company will conduct a search of the property’s history and public records to make sure its title is in good legal standing. Titles and deeds have very specific language that makes the transfer of ownership official. Title companies will make sure that everything in these documents is properly recorded during the closing process.

10. Homeowners Insurance Company

Once you’ve purchased a home, you need to protect it. Homeowners insurance policies cover your home, your belongings, injury, or property damage to others, and living expenses if you are temporarily displaced from your home due to an insured disaster. The coverage you’ll need will depend on your home’s location and condition, but what’s most important is that you’re fully protected as a homeowner.

For more information on the home buying process, connect with a local Windermere agent:

Featured Image Source: Getty Images – Image Credit: grandriver

Events • March 26, 2026

4/26: Free E-Waste Recycling & Paper Shredding Event

by Don Koonce

Real Estate News & Information • March 24, 2026

Numbers to Know 3/23/26: Why Mortgage Rates Are Rising Again

by Don Koonce

This is the latest in a series of videos with Windermere Principal Economist Jeff Tucker, where he delivers the key economic numbers to follow to keep you well-informed about what’s going on in the real estate market.

The first news this week is that the Federal Reserve did not cut interest rates at their meeting on March 18. Moreover, at the press conference following their meeting, Jerome Powell said they would not resume cutting interest rates this year until they saw some progress on inflation coming down further. For some insight into WHY that happened, our first number to know this week is 3%: that is where the Fed’s preferred inflation index has been heading in recent months. The Personal Consumption Expenditures price index normally runs a little cooler than the more well-known CPI inflation rate, and so the recent data showing the PCE inflation rate climbing toward 3% is giving the Fed even more of a reason to stop cutting rates than the benign CPI data this winter might have suggested.

Our second number to know: about $100. That is the ballpark for what a barrel of oil is now costing on major world benchmarks, up more than 50% from prices under $60 just a few short months ago. The culprit, of course, is the war on Iran and the resulting cutoff of most oil normally shipped from the Persian Gulf. This is a volatile, unpredictable situation where the news may change at any time, but for now, the impact is clear: higher costs for almost everything in the economy, as the higher cost of energy ripples out through the economy. That is a major source of concern about inflation this year, which Jerome Powell cited ON TOP OF lingering tariff inflation, as a reason to wait and see before cutting rates any further.

So our third number to know: mortgage rates back closer to 6 and a quarter percent, or higher. At the end of February we hit a major milestone: 30-year mortgage rates dipped below 6% for the first time in 41 months. But all the bad news I just shared about persistent inflation, especially driven by the new oil crisis, has sent mortgage rates soaring back up by a quarter point or more. That will throw a damper on home buying demand this spring, on top of the negative effects from higher gas prices and lower consumer confidence.

Speaking of the housing market, we saw 928 thousand active listings at the end of February, barely below where inventory stood at this time 6 years ago on the eve of the pandemic, and about 8% more than last year.

That marks yet another month where inventory is up year-over-year, but at a decelerating rate, ever since last May. Putting it all together, that means buyers will have more options in this spring buying season than in any recent year, but they should not expect a glut. The spring selling season always sees fierce competition for competitively-priced listings in desirable locations, so buyers should be prepared to move decisively if they see their dream homes, while sellers should do whatever they can to make their homes stand out amid the tide of other listings.

Buyers • March 19, 2026

What is Wire Fraud and How to Avoid It

by Don Koonce

A form of cybercrime, wire fraud has led to major losses for homebuyers in recent years. Get to know what it is and what steps you can take to avoid it.

What is wire fraud?

Real estate wire fraud is a scam that targets buyers while making payments during the home buying process. Attackers have taken advantage of the fact that there are several people and entities involved in real estate transactions. Between real estate agents title and escrow companies, mortgage lenders and more, there are many steps, some of which involve sharing financial information and transferring money. This gives ample opportunity for scammers to slip through the cracks somewhere along the line.

The timing of wire fraud is typically during closing using a sophisticated phishing scam. Attackers apply the use of fake emails, phone numbers, or websites, often posing as the buyer’s real estate agent and directing them to allocate funds to a fraudulent account. Because the attacker will have scanned, scrubbed, and lifted your personal information in preparation for the scam, their forms of communication can often look familiar and legitimate.

The mission of the cyberattack is to get your funds into an account the attacker owns. To do this, it is common for them to say that you had previously sent funds incorrectly, that they were never received, that there are new instructions for payment, or that there has been a last-minute change in the closing process. These are all major red flags. It is imperative to take extra caution during the final steps of purchasing a home because transfers, once initiated, are difficult to remedy and can delay your closing process.

How can I avoid wire fraud?

Get to know the closing process: Talk with your Windermere agent ahead of time about what to expect throughout the closing process. Discuss payment options with your lender and ask specifically about instructions for wiring funds. It is safer to share this information over the phone than through email, as scammers could accumulate this information to use against you.
Record contact information: Keep a list of the personnel involved in your closing process. Beyond your real estate agent, keep a record of contacts at your mortgage lender, title company, and attorney’s office. In the event that someone new reaches out to you with a request, confirm their identity with one of your contacts.
Call to confirm: Call to confirm wiring instructions before sending the transaction through. Talk to a trusted representative and ask them to repeat the information to verify its legitimacy. After sending the funds, make same-day follow-up calls to ensure they were received.
Trust your gut: If you receive an iffy email or phone call, trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s the perfect time to reach out to your contacts, discuss your hesitancy, and get advice before proceeding.

The threat of wire fraud emphasizes the importance of working closely with everyone involved in the purchase of your home. If you believe you have been scammed, contact your bank or wire transfer company immediately and request that they issue a recall notice for your wire. Contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center and report the activity with as much information as you can gather. For more information about how to protect yourself from wire fraud, visit the National Association of Realtors’ Wire Fraud resources page.

Buyers • March 17, 2026

How Long Do Appliances and Household Fixtures Last?

by Don Koonce

Every home is made up of dozens of moving parts, and none of them last forever. From appliances and flooring to roofing and siding, every component has a general life expectancy. Knowing how long these items typically last can help homeowners plan for repairs, budget for future updates, and make informed decisions when buying or selling a home.

We’re all familiar with the cliché: They just don’t build things like they used to. And while this may be true when it comes to brick siding or slate roofing, lifespans of other household components have increased in recent years. The following guide outlines the average life expectancy of common household components, based on data from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) along with industry estimates.

Appliances:

Among all household components, appliances tend to have the shortest lifespan because they experience daily wear and tear. Advances in technology have improved efficiency, but modern appliances also include more electronic parts, which can lead to repairs or replacement sooner than older models. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of most appliances, but these averages provide a general guideline for planning ahead.

Signs It May Be Time to Replace an Appliance

Even if an appliance hasn’t reached the end of its expected lifespan, certain warning signs may mean replacement is the better option. Frequent repairs, rising energy bills, inconsistent performance, or unusual noises can all indicate that a system is wearing out.

Kitchen & Bath:

Kitchens and bathrooms see constant use, so fixtures and finishes in these spaces often wear out faster than other parts of the home. When choosing your countertops, sinks, and faucets, it helps to consider both style and durability. Some natural materials can last a lifetime, while others may need updating after a couple of decades depending on use and maintenance.

Flooring:

Flooring plays a major role in both the look and function of a home, but different materials have very different lifespans. High-traffic areas will naturally wear faster, while proper care and refinishing can extend the life of many surfaces. If you’re looking for longevity, wood floors are the way to go. Certain rooms in your home will be better suited for carpeting, but you can expect they’ll need replacing within a decade.

Siding & Roofing:

When choosing roofing and siding for your home, climate and maintenance level factor into the life expectancy of the material. However, brick siding and slate roofing are known to be dependable for decades.

Are extended warranties warranted?

Extended warranties, also known as service contracts or service agreements, are sold for all types of household items from appliances to electronics. They cover service calls and repairs for a specified time beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.

You will have to consider whether the cost is worth it to you. For some, it brings a much-needed peace of mind when making such a large purchase. Also consider if the cost outweighs the value of the item. In some cases, it may be less expensive to replace a broken appliance than to pay for insurance or a warranty.

Staying informed about the lifespan of your home’s appliances and systems can make homeownership more manageable and help you plan ahead with confidence.

Real Estate News & Information • March 12, 2026

Local Market Update – March 2026

by Don Koonce

The spring real estate market got off to an early start this year, with all four of our local markets seeing a surge in homes selling above list price in February compared to January, pointing to increased buyer activity. More sellers are entering the market, giving buyers a wider selection of homes to choose from. At the same time, prices have remained relatively stable, a sign that these markets are finding their footing and normalizing. And with mortgage rates lower than a year ago, buying a home is becoming a little more attainable for many even without dramatic price changes.

KING COUNTY

The median price for a single-family home in King County nudged up 2% compared to February last year, from $915,000 to $936,000. Sellers showed up in force, with active listings jumping 42% year over year, but buyer activity didn’t keep pace, with pending sales dipping 3%. For King County condos, prices fell 11% to $545,000, while active listings climbed 25%.

SEATTLE

Seattle’s median residential sold price held steady at $962,500 in February, essentially flat compared to last year. Listings rose 34% year over year, and while pending sales were up 8%, closed sales dropped 9%. In the condo market, prices dipped 5%, dropping from $625,000 to $596,275, and active listings grew 20%.

EASTSIDE

The Eastside saw a 58% year-over-year jump in active listings in February. Though demand did not rise to meet the supply, as pending sales were flat year over year and up just 1% from the previous month. With less competition among buyers, prices adjusted accordingly. The median price for a single-family home fell 7%, from $1,685,000 to $1,566,782. For Eastside condos, the median sold price dropped a staggering 23% to $607,750, while inventory rose 37%.

SNOHOMISH COUNTY

Snohomish County saw strong growth in available homes, with active listings up 47% compared to February 2025. The median residential sold price slipped 4% year over year, from $785,000 to $749,997. Pending sales were up 3%, but closed sales fell 8%. Condo prices edged up 1% to $530,000, while active listings surged 62%.

With the busy season underway, lower interest rates and more homes on the market are reshaping the landscape for buyers and sellers alike. More inventory and steady demand mean that success in today’s market comes down to strategy and execution, not just waiting for the right moment. Whether you’re buying or selling, working with an experienced Windermere agent who knows the market makes all the difference.

Creating Space for a Stress-Free Zone in your Home

by Don Koonce

The meaning of home has expanded over the years, adding new activities beyond eating and sleeping. For many this means home has more space to work and do hobbies. But as those things expanded, the feeling of relaxation may have dwindled, and for those struggling with the mental health implications of this, creating a space in your home that is dedicated to reducing stress could be the ticket to achieving a sense of peace and calm. Whether you use that space to meditate, exercise, or read, having a place in your home to focus on your mental health can change the way you show up for yourself and the important people in your life.

Image Source: Getty Images Lytvyn

Fitness Corner

If exercise is your chosen route to improved mental health, a small home gym could be right for you. How you set up your fitness space will depend on your preferred form of exercise, as well as your budget.

If your routine requires a treadmill or indoor bicycle, make that the focal point of your space. If yoga, Pilates, or barre is more your speed, you’ll need room to unroll a mat and move freely. Weightlifting or body-weight exercises might necessitate more space and equipment but are both feasible even in a corner of your office or a walk-in closet.

Regardless of how you plan to get your sweat on, use nearby wall space for shelving or hooks to store equipment. This could range from light hand weights and exercise bands to jump ropes and yoga mats. If you need more storage, find furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, a cabinet that stores towels can also double as a surface for a small fan and your water bottle.

For extra motivation to spend time in your exercise area, add a little personalization. Wallpaper or bold paint colors not only add visual interest, but they also create a sense of separation from the rest of the room or area. Soothing art and living plants are particularly apt for spaces dedicated to yoga.

Meditation Space

Meditation is a great way to calm the mind, and you don’t need special equipment or a lot of room to do it. Creating your own meditation space can be simple, quick, and doesn’t require a large investment.

Start by finding a place in your house that is as free from distractions as possible. This could be a corner in your bedroom or a section of your backyard or terrace. Ideally the space would be near a window or natural light source.

Where and how you sit can make or break a meditation session. A chair, meditation cushion, or yoga mat that allows you to sit comfortably for several minutes while keeping you alert will do the trick.

If you plan to listen to guided meditations or music, a small Bluetooth speaker can be a good option if you want to avoid using headphones and will have better sound quality than listening from your phone’s speaker.

Though many people prefer to meditate with their eyes fully closed, visual elements can help set a serene scene. Plants, candles, statues, and art can also add a sense of your personality. If clutter stresses you out, keep your decor clean and minimalist. You can include your other senses in your meditations by adding a water feature and burning incense or essential oils.

Image Source: Getty Images JulieAlexK

Reading Nook

If getting lost in a good book is your favorite way to unwind, a reading nook will quickly become your favorite spot at home.

Whether you’ve got a corner or a closet to dedicate to the space, the key to hours of reading enjoyment is the right seating. It’s hard to beat the traditional wingback or club chair, but smaller spaces might call for more creative ideas. Floor cushions, padded benches, bean bag chairs, and hammocks are all options.

Once you’ve got your sitting area situated, lighting comes next. A location near a window that brings in natural light is ideal, but for those who love to read late into the night or who don’t have a window nearby, standing or table lamps and wall sconces will save you from eye strain.

If you’ve got the space, a side table for cocoa, coffee, or tea is a nice addition. It’s also a great area for that mile-high “to be read” pile book lovers are known for. Even better if it’s got a drawer for bookmarks, reading glasses, pens, and notebooks.

For extra coziness, add a throw blanket or shawl and some cushy pillows.

Make these ideas come to life, check out our Pinterest board for inspiration.

Living • March 5, 2026

Hosting on a Budget

by Don Koonce

There’s nothing better than spending time with family and friends. When we’re sharing memories—or making new ones—we feel close to our loved ones and reaffirm our bonds to each other. If you’re the one hosting a get together though, the expenses of feeding and entertaining everyone can quickly add up.

Whether you’re inviting family over for a holiday celebration, hosting a birthday or graduation party, or just want to hang out with a few friends, we’ve got some tips to keep costs down while ensuring everyone has a good time.

Plan a Potluck

Perhaps the simplest, and most obvious, way to keep food expenses down when hosting is to ask your guests to contribute. Consider splitting up assignments by first letter of last names. For instance, last names starting with A-H bring beverages, I-P bring sides, Q-V bring salads, and W-Z bring desserts. This works well for holiday gatherings, but only use the letter assignment system if you’re not hosting a lot of family members who share the same last name!

Gather for Games

Board games, charades, or Pictionary using an easel are fun for all ages, and no one expects a full meal while you’re playing. Games can create a fun theme for birthday or anniversary parties, too. Provide a few snacks, beverages, and the games themselves and you’re all set.

Make It a Movie Night

With streaming services and inexpensive rentals like Redbox, having friends over to watch a flick is an easy and affordable way to spend time together. Supply the popcorn (and maybe a few of your favorite kinds of candy) and you and your guests are in for an evening of fun for only a few dollars. Movie nights are a fun idea for older kids and teens as well. Whether you want to turn it into a slumber party is up to you!

Bake up Brunch

There are a million ways to use the relatively inexpensive grocery items like eggs, potatoes, and pancake mix to whip up a delicious brunch. Egg casseroles or quiches with fresh veggies are easy to make ahead of time and can expand how many people a few eggs can feed. Hashbrowns or home fries are instant crowd pleasers. And who doesn’t love pancakes?

The best thing about brunch is that you can serve it anytime. Whether your invitation list consists of early risers or sleepy heads, anytime between 9:00 AM and early afternoon is perfectly appropriate.

Shop Your Own Supply

Using what you already have stocked in your fridge and pantry is not only less spendy than a big store run, but it’s also handy if a party comes together at the last minute. Fruit, crackers, and cheese can quickly turn into attractive and tasty appetizers. Any kind of protein, rice, some beans, tortillas, and cheese can turn into a make-your-own taco bar.

More: Charcuterie board inspiration

Scope out the Sales

If you’ve got enough of a head start, planning the food and beverages you’re going to offer at your shindig around weekly or seasonal sales can save a pretty penny. Keep an eye out for grocery store circulars, coupons, and online ads that offer special deals on party favorites like soda, chips, and crackers. Shopping early can also pay off for big holiday meals. For example, many stores sell frozen turkeys weeks before Thanksgiving for a fraction of what you’ll pay for a fresh turkey the week of.

Serve a Signature Cocktail (or Mocktail)

Stocking a bar can easily become your party’s biggest expense, especially if your guests expect premium booze. Instead of purchasing all the bar staples and several varieties of beer and wine, create a signature cocktail (or mocktail) that only calls for a few ingredients and that you can make in advance. Sangrias, mojitos, and margaritas are great in big batches. A simple sorbet punch is a sure winner for the mocktail inclined.

Leave the Music to Us

Setting the tone with music is key to a great time. Windermere Real Estate has several playlists ready-made for your event. Choose one based on the vibe you’re going for from dinner to pool parties.

We hope these ideas help inspire you to host a gathering of your loved ones soon!

Design • March 3, 2026

What is American Country Interior Design? How to Create a Warm, Timeless Home

by Don Koonce

American Country style captures something many homeowners are craving: warmth, authenticity, and a sense of home that feels both personal and timeless. Rooted in rural American heritage, this design aesthetic celebrates simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. It’s cozy without feeling cluttered, nostalgic without feeling dated, and welcoming in a way that instantly puts guests at ease.

Inspired by pastoral landscapes and traditional materials, American Country interiors embrace comfort first. But while its origins may be rural, this style adapts beautifully to modern living, whether you’re in a farmhouse, a suburban home, or even a city condo.

Defining Features of American Country Interior Design

Inviting, Comfortable Spaces

At its heart, American Country design is about creating rooms that feel relaxed and lived in. These are spaces where oversized sofas invite long conversations, where a stone or brick fireplace becomes the gathering point, and where nothing feels too precious to use.

Wood or stone floors ground the space, often softened by natural fiber rugs. Furniture tends to be substantial and comfortable. Think leather armchairs, slipcovered sofas, or simple patterned fabrics like gingham, stripes, or muted florals. The overall effect is welcoming and unpretentious.

A Warm and Muted Color Palette

American Country interiors favor warm, inviting tones over stark contrasts. Beige and soft browns often serve as foundational colors for walls and upholstery. Cream-colored cabinetry or beadboard walls add lightness without feeling stark.

To round out the palette, muted greens and soft blues bring in subtle depth while maintaining the overall warmth. These colors feel connected to the natural landscape—fields, forests, and wide-open skies.

The key is restraint. Rather than bold statements, American Country style relies on layered neutrals and earthy tones that feel timeless and easy to live with.

Natural Materials and Craftsmanship

Traditional materials play a central role in American Country homes. Wooden furniture, whether it’s a large farmhouse dining table, Windsor chairs, or a well-worn rocking chair, reflects durability and simplicity.

Exposed ceiling beams, if your home has them, instantly elevate the look while honoring the style’s roots. Stone fireplaces, carved wood details, and hand-formed metal accents add depth and character.

Decorative elements are often functional as well as beautiful: pottery, woven baskets, mason jars, and wooden crates that double as shelving. These pieces feel collected over time rather than purchased all at once.

Textiles with History and Texture

Textiles are essential to achieving a true American Country feel. Handmade quilts layered across beds or draped over sofas add warmth and story. Patchwork pillows mix patterns in a way that feels intentional but not overly coordinated.

Natural fiber rugs, such as jute or sisal, bring texture underfoot while reinforcing the connection to organic materials. Floral and botanical prints, whether in wallpaper, framed artwork, or upholstery, introduce a gentle nod to the outdoors.

Antiques and Vintage Touches

American Country style thrives on pieces with history. A vintage dresser, a weathered wooden trunk used as a coffee table, or antique brass hardware can instantly add depth and authenticity.

Local antique shops and estate sales are often treasure troves for finding accessories that feel genuine. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s personality. A slightly worn finish or hand-crafted detail only enhances the charm.

Simple, Functional, Designed for Real Life

Above all, American Country design prioritizes practicality. Rooms are arranged for ease of movement and everyday use. Open shelving in the kitchen, for example, keeps essentials within reach while displaying beautiful dishware or preserved goods in glass jars. It’s a design philosophy that reminds us of how a home should support daily life.

If you’re drawn to interiors that feel warm, welcoming, and rooted in tradition, American Country might be the perfect place to start. For more design inspiration, tips, and trends, visit the design section of our blog.

Buyers • February 26, 2026

Buying with Your Pets in Mind

by Don Koonce

For many of us, pets play a central role in our home life, so taking into account what is best for them when buying a home is important for both their happiness and that of your entire household.

Is the Neighborhood A Good Match For Your Pet?

When looking for homes that are well suited to both you and your furry companion, consider the area surrounding the home. If your pet is an indoor/outdoor animal, it’s important to examine the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. If your pet spends time outside, a busy neighborhood could be dangerous, and depending on the level of traffic, he or she may need to be on a leash at all times.

How conducive is the neighborhood for taking your pet on walks? If you frequently walk your pet, look for neighborhoods with sidewalks. If your pet enjoys being off-leash, consider prioritizing homes with green belts, parks, trails, or designated off-leash areas nearby. It’s also a good idea to identify where the local emergency pet centers and veterinarian clinics are to insure there is sufficient medical care for your pet in proximity to where you live.

Does The House Meet the Needs of Your Pet?

Size: Is the house big enough? Depending on the type of pet, or breed of animal, space may be the most important factor in picking a pet-friendly home. If you are moving into a bigger space than you were in previously, understand your pet will likely take to the additional room differently. On the flip side, if you are downsizing, be mindful of how it might impact your pet.
Yard: If you have a pet that spends time outside, it’s important to pay particular attention to the yard. Is it large enough? Does it have a secure fence? Is there easy access between the home and the yard?
Flooring: Pet-friendly flooring can be tough. Surfaces that can be repaired or refinished when scratched are typically the best options for homes with pets. Sealing additional layers will build up the resistance to damage from paws, claws, and general pet wear and tear.
Carpet: Cats are notorious for clawing and scratching at carpet, and dogs are infamous for bringing the outdoors in with them. Consider carpeting of a lesser quality in the area where your pets spend most of the time, or search for carpets that are stain resistant and easy to clean.
Stairs: Older pets and multileveled homes are at odds. Consider the age of your pet and how active you expect them to be so that you don’t find yourself in a position where you’re having to carry your pet between floors.
Additions: If you’re comfortable with doing a little work on your potential home, you can consider adjustments that might make it a little more safe and comfortable for your pets. Adding an enclosed outdoor space for your cat called a catio or carving out space in the yard for a dog run can be just what your fur babies need.

More: 5 Pet Friendly House Cleaning Tips

What Does the HOA Say About Pets?

When looking at a home, ask whether or not it is a part of a Homeowners Association and what restrictions may apply to the property. For instance, certain HOA developments limit the number and/or type of pets per household.

Most pet owners take the needs of their pets seriously. In fact, in a recent Realtor.com survey, 95% of pet owners said that their pets needs were an important consideration when finding the right home to buy. When it comes down to it, prioritizing your pet when buying a home not only insures your pet’s well-being, but that of your household, as well.