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Are you a pet owner looking for a place to rent? Then you can expect quite an adventure. Getting yourself a pet-friendly apartment isn’t easy. For pet owners, the cute, little, furry buddies are family members, deserving every bit of the right to live in a comfortable home just as we do. However, navigating the realm of rental properties comes with its unsaid fair share of challenges, out of which finding a rental unit that allows pets can be challenging. From understanding the nitty-gritty of varying pet policies of different landlords to finding a place that allows your four-legged companion, the process requires patience.
So, if you don’t know how to kickstart your search party looking for a pet-friendly rental unit, this guide is going to be your best buddy! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll simplify the journey for you with a handful of important, practical tips to help you find the right home for both you and your pet.
Tips to Find Ideal Pet-Friendly Rental Apartments
Pet owners share an unfathomable bond with their pets. Therefore, getting your hands on a lucrative pet-friendly rental unit and sign lease digitally right away is like a dream come true for pet owners. With the below-mentioned tips, you will be able to easily make your way through finding a welcoming, pet-friendly rental place. Whether you are a cat enthusiast, a dog lover, or a small animal aficionado, with these tips in your pocket, you can easily secure a happy home for your family.
- Begin Your Search Early:
You might have heard the phrase, ‘early bird gets the worm’, right? Well, this phrase is quite applicable for apartment hunting, especially when you are a pet owner. It is best to prepare and start your search well in advance of your move-in date. The earlier you start, the more time you will have to check out potential options, thus likely increasing your chances of getting a pet-friendly place.
The ideal way to cut short your search hassle is by looking for properties that are enlisted, specifically mentioning pets. Apps and websites often have features to filter out searches to show pet-friendly properties. Use keywords such as ‘cats allowed’, ‘pet-friendly’, or ‘dogs welcome’ to narrow down your options.
- Create a Pet Resume:
As much as the idea of creating a pet resume might be amusing to you, it is equally impactful. Just like how you have a picture-perfect resume for your job search or rental application, your pet can have one too! A pet resume is a chance to introduce your pet in a crisp, brief form to prospective landlords or property managers.
Many property owners or managers use tenant screening services to scour through tons of applications effectively. Use this chance to showcase your pet’s ideal qualities, which can help persuade the landlord to accept your application. Adding details, like your pet’s details like age and breed, will give an idea to the landlord about your pet. Also, provide vaccination records, and any references from previous neighbors or landlords advocating your pet’s behavior are the cherry on top of your pet’s resume.
- Understand Pet Policies:
Taking into consideration different rental units, pet policies vary widely. Some rental places might be open to all types of household pets, while others might have strict restrictions depending on breed, size, or the number of pets. It is important to carefully go through the pet policies of the rental unit you want to come into a contract with or sign a lease with.
Some of the common restrictions you might want to watch out for are weight limitations, often around 25-50 pounds. Other than that breed restriction on aggressive pets like Rottweilers or Pit Bulls, the number of pets, typically one or two at max. One of the major pet policies you should be mindful of is that many landlords charge a specific monthly rent for pets. So, make sure to factor these costs into your monthly expenditure budget.
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- Check Out the Property:
Once you have a list of potential apartments, arrange to visit them in person. Take note of any pet-friendly features the property offers. Look for dog parks, pet waste stations, or nearby walking trails. These amenities can greatly enhance your and your pet’s living experience.
While you’re there, have a conversation with the property manager about their pet policies. Ask questions to clear up any uncertainties. For example, find out how they deal with noise complaints involving pets or if there are specific areas designated for pets.
- Be Honest About Your Pet:
Many pet owners often aren’t upfront about their pets to landlords, who have a strict policy against having pets on their property. However, being honest is best, especially when it comes to your pet, to prevent any future issues from escalating into legal hitches. This will also help you ensure both you and your landowner are on the same page.
Moreover, if your pet has any specific behaviors or needs that you feel must be pointed out beforehand, discuss them with your landlord. For instance, if your dog tends to bark when left alone, explain your efforts to manage this behavior. Landlords appreciate responsible pet owners who take proactive measures to make sure their pets are well-behaved.
Final Thoughts
Successfully landing a pet-friendly rental apartment is a dream come true because the majority of the rental units don’t allow pets. Despite the hassle, it is not impossible to find the perfect rental space that caters to your requirements. With our above-shared tips, you’ll be well-equipped to get started on your apartment search and find a place that welcomes both you and your pet.