Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your life. For many, it’s a dream come true, and it’s important to ensure that the property you’re purchasing is a good fit for your needs. If you’re considering buying a home that previously had pets, there are several factors to keep in mind. Pets can leave behind various signs of wear and tear, odors, and other issues that may not be immediately noticeable. To help you make an informed decision, here are important things to consider when buying a home that previously had pets.
1. Assessing Allergens and Odors
One of the most important considerations when buying a home that previously housed pets is the potential for lingering allergens and odors. Pet dander, hair, and even urine can seep into carpets, flooring, and walls, creating persistent allergens. This can be a significant issue for potential buyers who have pet allergies or sensitivities.
What to do:
- Ask about cleaning efforts: Before making an offer, ask the seller about how they addressed pet-related odors or allergens. Were the carpets cleaned? Did they perform a deep clean of the entire home?
- Inspect the air quality: If you have allergies, consider hiring a professional to check the air quality and suggest remediation options if necessary.
- Check for pet odors: While a house may look clean, lingering smells can sometimes be hidden in ventilation systems, carpets, or even furniture. Be sure to inspect the home thoroughly or consider hiring an expert to ensure the odors have been fully eradicated.
2. Inspecting Floors and Surfaces
Pets, especially dogs and cats, can be hard on flooring, especially if they weren’t well-trained or if the pet was particularly active. Scratches, stains, and wear and tear on floors can be costly to repair, so it’s essential to carefully inspect these areas.
What to do:
- Check for scratches: Wooden floors, laminate, or even tile can show visible signs of scratches from pets’ claws. If the scratches are deep, you might need to replace or refinish the flooring.
- Look for stains: Pets can leave behind stains on carpets, rugs, and upholstery, particularly if they had accidents indoors. Check for any lingering stains or signs of old pet urine.
- Examine surfaces: Pets may also cause damage to other surfaces like baseboards, walls, and doors. Be sure to look for chew marks, claw marks, or other damage caused by the pets.
3. Investigating Pest Issues
Homes that have had pets may also be prone to pest problems. Pet food, litter boxes, and even the pets themselves can attract pests such as fleas, ticks, or rodents. Even after the pets are gone, their presence could leave behind a greater risk for infestation, especially if not properly managed.
What to do:
- Check for signs of fleas or other pests: Ask the seller if the home has had any pest issues in the past. Look for signs of fleas or ticks, such as flea dirt or pet hair.
- Inspect the yard: If the previous pet had access to the outdoors, check for signs of pests in the yard as well. Ensure that the fencing and landscaping are in good condition to prevent future infestations.
- Consider a pest inspection: If you’re unsure, it’s worth hiring a pest control professional to inspect the home for signs of lingering pests.
4. Look for Pet Damage in the Yard
If the home you’re considering buying has a yard, it’s important to check for pet damage outside the house. Dogs in particular can cause significant wear and tear on a yard by digging holes, creating worn-down patches of grass, or even damaging fences and gates.
What to do:
- Inspect the yard: Look for signs of digging, wear around play areas, or damage to plants or lawn. You’ll also want to check the condition of the fence or gate to make sure it’s secure if you have pets of your own.
- Check for waste: Ensure that there’s no leftover pet waste or urine stains in the yard. Even if the pet was kept outdoors, the yard may require a cleaning to remove any remaining issues.
5. Evaluate the Home’s Overall Cleanliness
Pets can be messy, and homes that housed animals often require more than just a surface cleaning. It’s essential to ensure the home has undergone a thorough cleaning before moving in. This will help prevent any potential issues from pet hair, stains, or odors.
What to do:
- Request a deep clean: Ask the seller if they have done a deep cleaning of the entire home. This should include professional carpet cleaning, air duct cleaning, and possibly a fresh coat of paint to cover up any pet odors or marks on the walls.
- Check hidden areas: Pet hair and dander can accumulate in places like vents, behind furniture, or in the attic. Inspect these areas closely or ask if these spots have been addressed during the cleaning process.
6. Consider Your Future Pets
If you’re planning to bring your own pets into the home, it’s important to consider how the previous pets’ presence may affect your own animals. The energy of the home and its environment can play a role in how comfortable your pets will feel in their new surroundings.
What to do:
- Consider your pet’s needs: If you’re bringing pets into the home, think about their needs in terms of space, fencing, and environment. How will your dog react to the smell of other pets, or how will your cat react to the space?
- Look for potential risks: If you have a pet that’s prone to chewing or scratching, you may need to look at the home more closely to ensure there’s no residual damage or areas that may pose a risk.
7. Plan for Possible Renovations or Fixes
Buying a home that had pets may mean you’ll need to spend some extra time or money on repairs or renovations to make the space perfect for your needs. Whether it’s repairing flooring, re-painting walls, or cleaning up the yard, it’s wise to budget for any potential renovations that may be necessary due to the home’s past pet occupants.
What to do:
- Factor in repair costs: If you notice any damage to floors, walls, or yard areas, get an estimate for repairs before finalizing your decision. This can help you make an informed decision about whether the house is worth the investment or if you need to negotiate the price with the seller.
- Plan for deep cleaning: Ensure that the home undergoes a deep cleaning process to eliminate any traces of pet presence before you move in.
Conclusion
Buying a home that previously had pets can offer many benefits, but it’s important to consider a variety of factors before making your final decision. From inspecting for allergens and odors to evaluating pet damage, taking a thorough approach will help ensure that you’re making a sound investment. With careful consideration and planning, you can enjoy your new home with peace of mind, whether you’re moving into a pet-friendly environment or preparing for your own furry companions.
