Looking to move to a new rental - but what about our furry friends? Our pets have become part of the family, so obviously, we can't just leave them behind when you move!
Trying to find pet-friendly properties to rent turns out to be quite the challenging task! It'll definitely take more time, research, organizing, and probably a lot of persuading as well.
In the end, it can rather be limiting to many renters.
Never say never, so here are a few helpful tips for renting with pets next time you're out and about property hunting to ensure you're prepared to find a safe haven for yourself and your pets:
Tip #1 -- Stick with pet-friendly places
You don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure this one out: focus on properties to rent which allow pets!
Following your research, narrow down the list of properties that will allow pets - and if you're lucky to find like-minded pet lovers, you should have no trouble finding a perfect spot without too much hassle!
If anything, just start with this tip and forget about the remainder of this list, as this is undoubtedly the most foolproof way of renting with pets!
Tip #2 -- Ask first
Mom's probably right: you have to ask people first before you do something in their house... so, wouldn't it be the same with your rental home?
If you've evolved into a long-term renter, it might not be such a bad idea to check with your landlord if s/he has any specific rules or preferences about pets. The initial lease might have been one which stated no pets, but given your loyalty over the years, chances are pretty good that s/he might change his mind if you ask him.
Likewise, if you're the landlord, you've got to make sure to set the rules straight regarding pets to your tenants, and how it would change the dynamics on your property if you did have pets.
Tip #3 -- Show that you are responsible
It may or may not surprise you that pet owners actually do have a hard time finding places which are pet-friendly!
So, it shouldn't be that much of a stretch to understand how pet owners who found such a place, tend to stick around for longer than the average tenant.
Dare I say, they might on average be a better tenant?!
Without a doubt, that will be something your landlord will have picked up as well - especially if they've tried to sell a property with pets before - so, bring this up with your landlord and prove that you take responsibility for your pets!
And yes, this includes honesty as well: do not try & sneak your pet onto the property. If your landlord were to find out (and he eventually will over time), it might very well mean the end of your stay there...
Tip #4 -- Gather references
Tedious? Sure!
But effective? You darn right it is!
Gathering references for your pet will show your (new) landlord that, not only you can be trusted, but your pet passes the test as well.
Proving that your pet has been pretty well-behaved in the past can only benefit you in the long run!
And while you're at it, just get some medical records from your vet as well - just in case someone doubts your pets have received all their necessary shots :)
Finally, nothing that beats a classic 'face-to-face' meeting between your pet and the landlord, especially if your pet is a well-behaved little creature that adapts easily to new people/surroundings!
Tip #5 -- Propose a trial period
All-in-all, the landlord might still be in doubt whether or not he ought to let you have your pet on the property, so why not opt for a trial period?
Give them some time to observe the little furball, and if all goes well, the landlord will more than likely adjust the rental lease contract.
Needless to say, put the above trial period & conditions in writing to avoid any miscommunication afterwards, so if/when it does become permanent, the document can easily be added onto the existing contract.
Other Related Real Estate Articles:
- 4 Tips for Selling a Home With Pets via Debbie Drummond
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- How Pets Can Help You Sell Your Home via ImmoAfrica
- How To Sell A Home With Pets via Kyle Hiscock
- 7 Tips to Sell a Home with Pets via Bill Gassett
