Help Finding a Pet Friendly Apartment Rental or Pet Friendly Condo

Tired of Seeing "No Pets" Signs?

Are you tired of seeing this ubiquitous statement in all the ads for apartments of condos? But if only they knew my pet and how well behaved she is! Finding an apartment that allows pets can be a daunting task.

Here is some good information which should help you find a pet friendly apartment for rent or a pet friendly condo.

Show that you take great care yourself and your property.

Showing that you are a responsible tenant and that you take good care of both your borrowed home and your pet should help you find a good apartment where pets are allowed. Show up as though you were going to a job interview, being clean, prompt and friendly. Drive up and let the landlord see your that your car is washed and clean, inside and out.

(Refresh this page to see more cute pet pictures.)

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Bring references.

Show that you care far more for your pet than the average person. Landlords may be able to see themselves making an exception to their rule if they have documented proof from previous landlords, neighbors and possibly even your veterinarian that you are a responsible pet owner. Sometimes you can really impress a potential landlord by showing how much you care about your pet and desire to move into that new apartment with it by creating a Pet Resume. You may find that the "No Pets Allowed" place is now a pet friendly apartment rental, just waiting for you.

Rent from a person and not an organization.

Rental agencies often are not able to bend the rules. If they make even one exception under special circumstances, they can open a whole can of worms for themselves and their organization. Private owners on the other hand are often able to make exceptions if they see that leaving their property in your hands is a safe bet.

Be ready to pay more.

Be ready to pay more. You may be required to make an additional pet deposit, pay extra cleaning charges, and possibly even pay more rent.

Pet insurance.

Be prepared to purchase pet insurance if the apartment landlord requires it.

Use a Pet Apartment Directory.

This may be your best bet. A number of Pet Friendly Apartment directories exist, at your local humane society, library and via the internet.

But can't I just lie about not having a pet? My pet never causes any trouble.

This is not advisable. It can get you in a lot of hot water with the management and can result in a forced move, possibly even in the dead of winter. Besides, constantly being worried that your secret will be discovered and you'll have to move can really ruin the sense of enjoyment you get from being home with your family.

Keep up the good work.

All is not done once you get that new, great apartment. Make sure you keep your end of the bargain and continue to take great care of yourself, your pet and your abode.