Why Builders Are Adding Dedicated Pet Wash Stations to New Homes

In Episode 70 of The Housing Economy, Lucas and Luna explore a surprising new trend in new-home construction: dedicated pet wash stations. With 69% of U.S. households now owning a pet, up from 56% a decade ago, homebuilders like D.R. Horton and Lennar are adding mudroom-style pet spas as a standard option. Lucas explains how this feature, which costs roughly $1,500 to build, can add up to $4,000 in perceived value and reduce wear on kitchens and bathrooms. They also discuss the broader economics of pet-friendly real estate, including how pet ownership rates correlate with home price trends. The conversation zooms out to consider whether this is a durable shift or a passing amenity war. Along the way, the hosts reflect on why listener-supported, ad-free content like this episode exists and where to find it. #PetWashStation #Homebuilding #RealEstate #HousingMarket #NewHomeFeatures #PetOwnership #D R Horton #Lennar #HomebuilderTrends #AmenityWar #HousingEconomy #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #HomeDesign #Mudroom #PetFriendly #ConstructionCosts Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo