Tips To Locate A Pet-Friendly Home

Finding pet-friendly housing can sometimes be a challenge, making pet ownership more difficult at time. Depending on the area, some landlords who allow pets tend to offer lower-quality housing while landlords of higher-quality housing tend to avoid pets, fearing damage that can occur from tenants' pets.

While finding just the right apartment or home can be difficult, it is not impossible. However, you will need some patience and organization skills as you search for the perfect home that allows your pet to continue being your companion.

Landlords usually prefer to avoid allowing pets, because pets can cause damage to the property, which is their investment. As a potential tenant, you should not have to accept sub-standard housing. While there is obviously the potential for conflict between your desire to have your pet with you and the landlord's desire to protect his investment, you can work through this.

As mentioned, landlords tend to dislike renting to pets because of potential damage. Another reason is because some pets can be quite noisy, driving neighboring apartment dwellers away.
As your pet's owner, it is your job to advocate on his or her behalf. Your skill of being your pet's advocate may be just the ticket to convincing a landlord to take a chance with you and your pet.

Create a profile - a resume, if you will - for your pet. Show that you are a responsible pet owner. If the pet in question is a dog, detail any classes or training your dog has taken. If your dog has earned the American Kennel Club's Good Canine Certificate or other certifications (such as Search-and-Rescue, or Certified Therapy dog) be sure to include this fact. If you are currently in a rental situation, having references as to your pet's good behavior from your current landlord and neighbors may be helpful as well.

Of course, your veterinarian can provide you with proof to show your landlord that you keep your pet fully vaccinated and that the pet is in good health. Essentially anything that will help show you are a responsible pet owner may be of help.

If you are not moving a great distance, your future prospective landlord may be willing to see how your current residence is maintained. Some pets have a difficult time adjusting to a new home and routine; offer to take some time off from work when you move to help your pet make the adjustment with a minimum of fuss.

Regardless of what kind of pet you have, be sure to have your landlord's permission. Discuss any potential issues so that there are no misunderstandings. Be sure to get the details included in your lease, so that your pet is protected from the landlord changing his mind after you have moved in.

Alex Mathis has been writing articles about pets for the past two years. He also enjoys writing about New York City real estate topics, like commentary about Chelsea apartments and East Village apartments.