Miami Millennials Are Sending Real Estate to the Dogs — Literally
It’s no secret that Miami’s real estate market continues to thrive, and one surprising group driving home-buying demand might just have four legs and a wagging tail.
According to a national survey by Harris Poll for SunTrust Mortgage, one-third of millennials (ages 18–36) who purchased their first home said their dog — or desire to have one — was a major factor in the decision to buy. In fact, more millennials cited their pets as motivation for homeownership than marriage (25%) or having children (19%).
In Miami-Dade County, where condos and single-family homes often come with strict pet policies, this new trend is reshaping how developers, Realtors®, and home inspectors approach the market.
Millennials, Miami, and Their Dogs
Millennials across Miami, Coral Gables, Brickell, and Wynwood are prioritizing space, yards, and dog-friendly neighborhoods when buying homes. The desire for more living space (66%) and the opportunity to build equity (36%) remain top motivations, but the love of dogs has jumped into the top three — ahead of many traditional life milestones.
“Millennials have strong bonds with their dogs, so it makes sense that their furry family members are driving home-buying decisions,” says Dorinda Smith, president and CEO of SunTrust Mortgage. Renting in Miami can be expensive — especially in pet-restricted high-rises — while owning a home gives pet owners freedom and flexibility.
Expert Insight from Florida Builders Engineers & Inspectors
Roger Morales, founder of Florida Builders Engineers & Inspectors, notes the emotional connection between homeownership and pet ownership.
“There’s pride in homeownership,” Morales says, “and when combined with caring for a four-legged fur ball, the feeling is even more rewarding. We see more first-time buyers in Miami choosing homes with fenced yards, durable flooring, and safe outdoor areas for pets.”
For more about Roger’s work and community insight, visit RogerMoralesFlorida.com/about-us.
Miami’s Pet-Friendly Neighborhood Boom
Neighborhoods like Coconut Grove, Shenandoah, and North Miami Beach are seeing increased demand from millennial buyers with dogs. Proximity to parks like Kennedy Park, Margaret Pace Park, and the South Pointe Dog Park make these areas especially attractive.
Real estate agents and home inspectors alike have noticed that dog ownership is influencing property features, such as:
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Larger backyards and fenced perimeters
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Non-carpet flooring and durable finishes
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Proximity to dog parks and walking trails
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HOA communities with pet-friendly bylaws
As Miami continues to grow, developers and inspectors are adapting to ensure that homes meet these lifestyle demands — not just structurally, but functionally for pet owners.
Why a Professional Home Inspection Matters for Millennial Buyers
Before bringing home a new pet — or signing that contract — Miami buyers should always schedule a comprehensive home inspection.
Florida Builders Engineers & Inspectors provides full-service inspections across Miami-Dade County, ensuring that homes are safe, structurally sound, and ready for move-in.
Our inspections cover:
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Roofing, structure, and foundations
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Electrical and mechanical systems
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Plumbing and drainage
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Environmental and safety conditions
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Pool and yard evaluations (perfect for pet-friendly buyers)
We help buyers avoid hidden issues that could quickly turn a dream home into a financial headache.
The Future of Miami Real Estate Is Millennial (and Pet-Friendly)
Among millennials who have yet to buy a home, 42% say their dog — or the desire to have one — is a major factor in wanting to own property. That means Miami’s housing market will continue to see strong demand from this generation of pet-loving buyers.
“Millennials are trending toward homeownership,” says Smith. “Demand among first-time buyers is strong, and we expect them to continue adding energy to the market.”
Whether you’re a Realtor®, investor, or first-time buyer, it’s clear that in Miami’s real estate market, dogs are shaping decisions — and homes — more than ever.
For more information or to schedule your Miami home inspection, visit
👉 InspectionsAndElevationCertificates.com/contact