The Next Generation of Pet-Friendly Multifamily Design
More renters than ever are looking for communities that welcome their furry friends. If you're a property owner or developer, adding pet-friendly features isn’t just a nice touch, it’s a game-changer. The right upgrades can help fill units faster, keep tenants longer, and make your property stand out.
Why Pet Amenities Matter More Than Ever
Pet ownership is at an all-time high, with nearly 70% of U.S. households having a pet. For renters, pet policies can be a dealbreaker, with surveys showing that over 75% of tenants consider them a major factor when choosing where to live. If your property isn’t pet-friendly, you’re missing out on a huge pool of potential renters.
How Pet-Friendly Features Impact Leasing Trends:
Pet-friendly properties tend to have lower vacancy rates.
Tenants are often willing to pay more for pet-friendly amenities.
Allowing pets can lead to longer lease terms and fewer turnovers.
The Best Pet-Friendly Upgrades for ROI
Allowing pets is a great start, but adding thoughtful amenities is what truly attracts tenants and protects your investment. Here are three upgrades that deliver the most bang for your buck:
1. Pet Washing Stations
A dedicated pet spa area makes life easier for tenants and reduces the wear and tear on apartment interiors. The best setups include:
Raised tubs with spray hoses.
Non-slip flooring and good drainage.
Grooming tables and drying stations.
ROI Insight: Pet washing stations not only attract pet owners but also help minimize costly plumbing repairs caused by pet hair buildup in units.
2. Dog Parks & Relief Areas
A well-designed outdoor space for pets isn’t just a perk—it’s a necessity for many renters. Great features include:
Fenced-in dog parks with agility equipment.
Shaded seating areas for owners.
Plenty of waste stations with biodegradable bags.
ROI Insight: A designated dog park reduces damage to landscaping and encourages community engagement, helping keep tenants longer.
3. Scratch-Resistant Flooring
Flooring upgrades in pet-friendly units can save landlords a fortune in maintenance. The best options include:
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Durable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant.
Tile Flooring: Easy to clean and incredibly resilient.
High-Quality Laminate: Gives the look of hardwood with better durability.
ROI Insight: Long-lasting, pet-friendly flooring reduces turnover expenses and keeps units looking great even with long-term pet-owning tenants.
Why Pet-Friendly Features Keep Tenants Longer
Pet-friendly communities don’t just attract more renters—they keep them longer. Surveys show that pet owners are much more likely to renew leases when their needs are met. Offering great pet amenities makes tenants feel at home and less likely to look elsewhere.
The Big Benefits:
Higher lease renewal rates due to happier tenants.
A stronger community atmosphere that keeps renters engaged.
A competitive edge, helping your property stand out in the market.
Final Thoughts
The demand for pet-friendly living isn’t going anywhere. By investing in smart, high-ROI upgrades like pet washing stations, dog parks, and scratch-resistant flooring, property owners can attract and keep great tenants while keeping maintenance costs in check.
If you're ready to make your property more pet-friendly, Slate Construction Group specializes in renovations that improve tenant satisfaction and increase property value. Let’s talk about how we can enhance your community.