Sometimes, finding a perfect pet-friendly month-to-month lease can be a tough task as landlords fear damage or disturbance. Pet owners go through the frustrating process of seeking temporary housing to welcome their pets and are greeted by having few options and strict pet policies.
However, the right strategies will enable you to find a suitable rental without compromising the health and well-being of your pet. If you’re relocating for work, moving permanently, or simply need flexible housing arrangements, accessing the rental marketplace as a pet owner is essential.
From creating a strong pet resume to negotiating pet deposits, there are numerous ways that you can make your application stand out.
Here are tips you must know that will ensure you find the ideal pet-friendly rental.
1. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely
If you’re seeking a new home as a pet parent, the neighborhood makes all the difference. Look for proximity to pet-friendly facilities that suit you.
Having access to pet friendly month to month rentals with beaches and walking trails, as well as parks with off-leash facilities, will give the dogs plenty of room to run around and also give you a chance to meet other like-minded residents.
Make sure you feel safe walking the streets at any hour of the day or night, especially if the pet’s an early riser.
2. Take Into Account the Property Type and Facilities
Before you apply to the new property, make sure the house or apartment will accommodate your pet. Is there a yard or access to the balcony? Is there a lift or stairs? Don’t rent a walk-up apartment if you have a larger or older dog.
When you start house hunting, search for properties that are “pets allowed” right from the start. New developments now include pet-friendly facilities like fenced-in gardens, water fountains, and clean-up materials in common areas.
3. Provide the Complete Information about Your Pet
The more information you include in your application, the more likely you will impress a potential landlord. Property managers want as much information as possible before making any decision.
List the pet’s breed, age, temperament, and behavior. You may also include the pet’s Certificate of Registration or microchip number (if you do not have this record, ask the local vet) and the history of vaccinations. Record the pet’s overall health and training history.
4. Ask For a Reference from Your Current Agent
Your references must accompany you to stand out from the crowd. Property managers adhere to strict procedures and screen the tenant based on references.
Including one of your former landlords as one of the references will allow you to prove that you are capable of maintaining property and that you also have a pet. If you have recently got a puppy, you may want to enroll them in training and include that in the application.
5. Research on Local Pet Services
When you are moving into a new neighborhood, you need to research the pet services. You want pet groomers, trainers, and veterinarians within reach so you know that your pet will have everything that it needs.
You can ask the neighborhood pet owners for suggestions before you sign the lease. They know firsthand about all the services in the area.
6. Act Immediately
The reduced supply of pet-friendly properties for rent makes them rent out faster. All supporting paperwork (recent payslips, photo IDs, and a letter of additional credit) must be photocopied and authenticated if necessary.
Get there early at the inspection so you can meet the real estate agent and submit your application on the same day. Timing is critical in such a tight marketplace; you might fill out application forms in advance online to save time.
7. Take Note of Your Duties
All landlords would want good tenants whom they can depend on. Be open and honest about your pet so you don’t have a big headache later. Not revealing your pet may result in a contract breach and even eviction.
Landlords want to ensure you won’t interfere with the neighbors’ privacy and comfort and keep the noise levels low. You should prepare to answer questions about your pet’s breed, height, weight, and daily habits.
Do you work from home and take them out regularly? Or does the pet accompany you to the office? Tell the agent about your daily routine.
8. Know the Pet Laws and Regulations
Before you decide on a spot, research the area’s pet laws and regulations. These may include breed restrictions, leash regulations, and noise regulations. Knowing these beforehand will save you plenty of headaches later on.
Also, check the landlord’s pet policies to know what you are and aren’t allowed to have, as these policies vary significantly between rentals.
9. Be Prepared to Pay Pet Deposits and Fees
Apart from the apartment rent, most landlords charge additional pet deposits or pet rent to cover potential damage. Therefore, you need to check the laws in the area to determine what landlords may charge.
In addition, some landlords may charge a one-time fee for having your pet around. You should check these laws first and see if you agree.
Wrapping Up
It may seem daunting initially to rent an apartment with a pet. However, it’s relatively simple once you have the right tools and resources. This guide will help you make the correct decisions about apartment life and your pet. From finding pet-friendly facilities to creating a warm living space, these tips will allow you to transition smoothly into your new life with your four-legged friend.