Community HOAs offer residents tons of advantages, from impressive curb appeal to enhanced security. However, some HOA rules can do more harm than good, even when well-intentioned.
One of those rules is not allowing pets in an HOA community. Allowing pet ownership brings its community challenges, but banning pets outright can also prevent your association from harnessing some impressive benefits.
What are the benefits of allowing pets and their owners to live in your community? We are talking about the most important ones next, so read on to learn more.
Not All Communities Have Pet-Friendly Policies
Homeowners' associations have the power to dictate whether residents can own pets. Because they don't understand pet-friendly HOA benefits, some communities leverage this power to ban pet ownership.
If your HOA community allows pets, you will set yourself apart from these strict neighborhoods. Your pet-friendly policies will attract pet owners and people who enjoy a friendlier community environment.
Pet Owners Are More Social and Less Stressed
Want to decrease the number of complaints your HOA board has to deal with? Inviting pet owners into your community is an easy way to do it, as families with pets tend to be more social and less stressed out.
According to Tufts University, pet ownership is correlated with increased trust and stronger relationships with the people around us. As a result, your community members will be less likely to complain about each other.
Pet-Friendly Cities Are Economically Competitive
Households with pets in the family spend a combined $136 billion per year. You can help contribute to pet spending in your area by enforcing pet-friendly policies in your HOA community.
The more pet spending in your community, the more jobs to add to the local economy. As more people move to the area for these jobs, your HOA revenues will go up as community vacancies drop.
Communities With Pets Are Safer
Looking for ways to deter criminals from targeting your community? Research shows that burglars are less likely to target homes with dogs inside, and we aren't just talking about big dogs.
Even homes with small, noisy dogs are less likely to be burglarized than homes without pets. Your neighborhood can enjoy a significantly lower property crime rate with pet-friendly HOA policies.
Pet Owners Live Longer
HOA community pet policies can foster more stable residency since homeowners with pets live longer. Pet owners may enjoy a 24% reduced mortality rate compared to people without pets.
Longer-lived residents may stay in the community longer, reducing vacancies and fostering a family-like atmosphere. Community residents will benefit just as much as the HOA.
These Are the Benefits of Pets in an HOA Community
Allowing pets in an HOA community is a big decision. When comparing the pros and cons, make sure to consider benefits like happier residents, thriving local economies, and lower crime rates before making your choice.
Does your Oakland association need help managing day-to-day activities? PMI Oakland has over ten years of experience managing HOAs and other community associations. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
