Over the last several years, data has shown that millennials' real estate purchases are largely motivated not necessarily by proximity to work or readiness for marriage and kids, but rather by their desire to provide their dogs with a comfortable environment.
Here are a few things to look for if you're looking to buy a house in Albuquerque with a dog in mind, or if you plan to get one.
A floor plan that works
Is your dog older? It might not be so easy to climb up and down the stairs. Your best option at this stage of your life may be a ranch style home.
Yards that are safe
Look closely at the outside space of a house when you're choosing a home. Does your dog have enough room to run? Does the yard have a fence? What is the condition of the fence?
Doggie pals
During this social withdrawal, you may not want to meet up with your friends and their pets, but this too shall pass, won't it? When that happens, you might want to make sure that you're positioned in a dog-friendly area.
Barking dogs
On the other hand, the neighbors' dogs might be nightmares. Mega-barkers can be irritating in general, but if they also get your dog(s) going, it can be especially frustrating.
Close to a park
If you don't live in an area where you can let your dogs roam freely, having a nearby park is a great alternative.
Wildlife conditions
Is your research focusing on areas in Albuquerque where coyotes or other predators are common? The farther you go away from the city, the more predators there will likely be. If you can't install a doggie door and have to leave your dog alone while you're gone for long periods of time, you need to consider both the danger factor and what life would be like.
How busy is the street?
Dogs get out. It happens all the time. A high traffic area could increase your dog's chances of being injured or even killed by a vehicle. While you have your dog always on a leash, what happens to them if you're distracted, or if a child, visitor, or serviceman leaves the door open"? Are they going to rush into a quiet cul-de-sac or a busy street?
Nooks and crannies
If you do buy a two-story home, that unused space under the stairs would make a great dog hangout area!
Community rules
You should make sure that the communities you consider are not restricting breeds like pit bulls or German shepherds. There may also be pet restrictions in some condo and townhome communities.
Even if you own your own property, it's not a guarantee your pet will be allowed on the property, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). “Depending on the number and the breed, there can be restrictions within an Homeowners Association (HOA), condo development, or even the city or state, at large.
The right flooring
Consider dog-friendly materials if you're buying a new home or renovating. Luxury vinyl tile is a popular option that mimics the look of wood in a much easier-to-care-for, pet-friendly way. Luxury vinyl tile is a great choice for homes with furry companions because it is easy to clean and 100% waterproof.