Paws, Perks & Property: Should You Buy a House or Rent a Property in CT (According to Your Pet)?

Let’s be real—sometimes it’s the furriest family member who’s actually calling the shots: “Where’s my ball park? My sun spot? My bark-worthy yard?”

As a Connecticut realtor, I’ve helped buyers answer the big question: should you buy a house or rent a property in CT? And guess what? Pets are not just along for the ride—they’re often the co-pilots.

🏡 Pets = Big Influence in Home Decisions

Did you know more U.S. households have pets than children? 🐶 NAR reports nearly 66% of American homes now include a pet, compared to just 27% with kids under 18—a record low.

Even more telling: around 20% of recent homebuyers said their pet influenced their neighborhood choice, with that number climbing to 24% for unmarried couples and 17% for single women 

Pets aren’t just adorable—they’re decision-makers.

🧠 Why Buying Beats Renting (Especially If You Have Pets)

1. Space for your four-legged fitness coach
Dog-friendly buyers lean toward homes with yards, proximity to parks, and open floor plans—features that 69% of people prioritize when choosing a home.

2. Custom pet-centric upgrades
Pet parents invest in flooring, landscaping, even custom feeding nooks. A staggering 52% of homeowners renovate with their pets in mind — think “barkitecture” 

3. Neighborhood rules matter
About 18% of buyers said vet proximity or pet-friendly outdoor spaces were very important when choosing a community. Another 68% admit pet policies influence their buy or rent decisions.

4. Building equity vs rising rent
CT’s home prices continue to climb, but fixed mortgages beat unpredictable rent hikes—especially when rentals are scarce or pet-restricted.

🏢 When Renting Still Wins (Yes, Even for Pet Parents)

• Flexibility first: Perfect if you're relocating or just testing the CT life.

• Lower upfront cost: No down payment or closing fees.

• Simplicity: Landlord handles maintenance—great if your idea of fun is NOT unclogging a toilet.

• Quick move-in: Ideal for someone who needs to be in before the puppy’s next birthday.

Just remember: pet-friendly rentals are a hot commodity. Expect deposits, fees, and limited listings, making renting only worthwhile if you need short-term flexibility or less financial commitment.

🐶 Real Pet-Led Decisions (CT Edition)

• “Our golden retriever barked over every apartment we saw—until we found a backyard ranch in Milford. He's the reason we bought!”

• “My kitty refused to use the common hallway—so we bought a condo in Westport with vaulted ceilings and a perch window.”

• “My husky hated sharing elevators—now we have yard time every day, and he still howls at his ‘old life.’”                                                                                                                                      

  If your pup dreams of chasing squirrels or your cat kneads a cozy, dedicated corner, buying may be calling your name.
  But if you're tied to work flexibility, renting is still a fantastic option—just remember, not all landlords are pet-friendly.

  Your pet is part of the family—and when they’re happy, so are you. Thinking about your next move in Connecticut? Let’s find a home that wags, purrs, and suits every member of your crew.

  📞 Drop me a message below