8 Tips on Finding a Good Dog-Friendly Rental Property

As a pet owner, finding a rental property whose landlord wouldn’t turn you away because of your animal companion might be difficult.

Property owners have many reasons not to accept tenants who want to bring their furry babies along.

Keep reading for some tips to help you find a pet-friendly home that would suit you and your furry friend.

Be Social

A great place to start would be to reach out to friends and acquaintances and ask if they know of any pet-friendly owners.

You can also use social media and online forums to ask for recommendations and advice. Another bountiful resource is local dog-walking groups - they can provide valuable insights into dog-friendly areas and landlords.

Additionally, you can consider working with a real estate agent who specialises in pet-friendly rentals. 

Such agents often have access to a network of pet-friendly landlords and properties that may not be available through traditional rental listings. 

As the decline in selling new homes increases, real estate agents should have more time to work part-time as lease agents, right?

Look Online

Many websites and online communities cater to pet owners searching for rental properties. Some examples of such resources include:

• Pet-friendly rental listing sites - Websites that allow landlords to advertise their pet-friendly properties, making it easier for you and other pet owners to find suitable rentals. Some popular ones include Zumper, Rent.com, and Apartments.com.
  
  
• Pet forums - Online communities can provide valuable information about pet-friendly lease apartments and houses and give tips for negotiating with future landlords and navigating local laws and regulations. Popular forums include Pet Forums, Pet-Friendly House, and Pet Forums Community.
  
  
• Social media groups - Local pet owner groups on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms can also be great resources for finding pet-friendly rental properties.

Use specific search terms such as "pet-friendly rentals" or "dog-friendly apartments" to narrow down your options during your online search.

Get References

Having positive rental history and references from previous landlords can help convince a potential landlord that you and your pet are reliable tenants.

To prepare for this, ask for written recommendations from previous landlords, roommates, and anyone who can attest to your responsible pet ownership.

Also, proof of obedience training and up-to-date vaccinations can help alleviate a landlord's concerns about potential damage or liability.

Owners of properties with modern design might have an extra reason to avoid pets.

That’s why it’s a good idea to provide your potential landlord with additional information about your pet, such as its breed, size, and temperament. This can help demonstrate that your pet is well-behaved and unlikely to cause damage or disturbance.

Consider a Co-living Arrangement

Co-living arrangements are an excellent option for pet owners struggling to find pet-friendly rental properties. Co-living typically involves sharing a space with other individuals or families and can be more affordable than renting an entire apartment or house alone.

Many shared living spaces are also pet-friendly, as long as the pet is well-behaved and doesn't cause mishaps. Be sure to research co-living options in your area to see if this could be a good fit for you and your little friend.

Utilise a Pet Resume

A pet resume or passport can be a helpful tool for pet owners when searching for rental properties.

This document typically includes information about your pet's age, breed, size, personality, and proof of obedience training and vaccinations. It can also include references from previous landlords or pet sitters.

As markets return to proper operation, having a pet resume on hand can demonstrate to potential landlords that you are a responsible pet owner. A well-behaved pet unlikely to cause damage or disturbance is always a sight.

Include this information with your rental application to increase your chances of securing a pet-friendly rental property.

Prepare for a Pet Interview

Some landlords may want to meet your pet before agreeing to a tenancy. Prepare for this by making sure your pet is well-groomed and obedient.

Bring along any necessary documentation, such as vaccination records and training certificates. During the interview, be prepared to demonstrate your pet's obedience and discuss any concerns the landlord may have.

It's also a good idea to familiarise your pet with its new surroundings - particularly if you plan on living in an apartment building.

Introduce your dog to new sights, sounds, and smells to help make it feel more comfortable and reduce the possibility of barking or leaving an overall negative impression.

Look for Specific Pet-Friendly Features

When searching for a rental property, look for features that will make life easier for you and your pet.

For example, properties with secure outdoor spaces, nearby parks or walking trails, and easy access to pet stores and veterinary clinics can be ideal for pet owners.

Additionally, look for properties with durable flooring and ample storage space for pet supplies. With such demand in the property market - it shouldn’t be too difficult.

It's also essential to review the landlord's pet policies and rules, such as any weight or breed restrictions and whether there are any additional pet fees or deposits. Understanding these policies in advance can help you avoid surprises or disputes later.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

While some landlords may welcome pets without restrictions or extra fees, others may request a hefty deposit. Be prepared to negotiate with your potential future landlord and find a solution that works for both of you.

For example, you may offer to pay a larger bond deposit, sign a longer lease or agree to cover an end of lease cleaning service upon vacating the property in exchange for allowing your pet.

It's essential to be respectful and understanding when negotiating with your potential landlord.

Remember, they may have had negative experiences with pets in the past, and it's your responsibility to demonstrate that you and your pet will be responsible and respectful tenants.

Takeaways

In conclusion, finding a good pet-friendly rental property can be challenging, but with these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a suitable place. 

Remember to:

• Look online;
• Get references;
• Prepare for a pet interview;
• Check out specific pet-friendly features;
• Be prepared to negotiate.

Follow those simple tips, and you can find a rental property that meets your needs as a pet owner in no time.