The people who lose their homes to foreclosure have no other alternative - they must rent an apartment. Since so many new people are living in apartment rentals, few are currently available and even fewer allow renters to have pets. While some allow pets except for dogs, others refuse to allow as much as a goldfish.
Landlords don\'t generally dislike pets, but they have to protect their property, their tenants, and themselves from potential problems that can be caused by pets. These tips will help you find a rental home without losing your beloved animals.
Looking To Rent An Apartment That Allows Pets
When seeking an apartment rental, give yourself enough time to thoroughly search for the best place for both you and your pet. Contact local rental agencies and property management companies to see what pet friendly locations they have available.
Don\'t overlook checking the classifieds section of your local newspaper. Someone may have a house for rent who didn\'t list it with an agency. You never know, they may even welcome pets and have a fenced in yard. In addition, check out local pet stores, community bulletin boards, and the Internet.
Show The Landord You Are A Responsible Pet Owner
Often, a landlord just wants to know for sure that he is not causing problems for the neighbors by allowing you to have a pet in an apartment rental. In addition, they are usually concerned with the potential for damages by a pet when they rent an apartment to you.
While you can tell the landlord you are a responsible pet owner, it won\'t usually mean too much unless you can actually show you are.
Get references from your veterinarian, old neighbors, and even the company responsible for taking over or selling your last home. They can tell the potential landlord that they have never seen your pet cause any damages, that it is well behaved, and that you are a responsible pet owner may help.
In addition, ask if the landlord would like to meet your pet in person. Seeing how cute and well behaved your pet is may be enough for a landlord to give the apartment rental a chance. Just make sure your pet will behave during the meeting before you present this option.
Make A Deal
First of all, always be honest with the landlord up front. Never try to sneak in a pet unnoticed. This can cause problems later when your pet is discovered - and the likelihood is that eventually your pet will be discovered. If the landlord still doesn\'t want to rent an apartment to you, be flexible and offer him a deal. Offer to pay a larger damage deposit to show you are confident that your pet will not cause any damage.
If you can afford it, offer to pay more per month if the landlord will allow your pet. Most complexes have lesser desirable apartments. Offer to take one of the less desirable apartments that may have been empty for a while in exchange for allowing your pet. Try to make a deal with the landlord and make sure you get everything in writing - and witnessed by another party when possible.
It may not be easy to rent an apartment that allows you to have a pet, but it isn\'t impossible. Take your time finding the perfect place where you and your pet will feel at home. Never abandon your animal just to find an apartment rental. If you need to, place your pet with your veterinarian, in a temporary facility, or with a friend or family member until you can find the perfect pet friendly home.
