Apartment Hunting Tips for Pet Owners
When you have to move there are so many things that you need to think about. The stress of organizing, packing and planning can be a handful. Add in the stress that moving puts on your pets and you could be looking at some very unhappy furry friends.
We know you want everything to go smoothly. Here are some tips to make apartment hunting easier on you and your pets.
Tips to Keep in Mind
1. Plan Ahead: Start checking ads or calling rental companies about 6 weeks prior to your move. Contact the humane society or animal care facilities for their recommendations for apartment communities that accept pets.
2. “Sell” yourself to each potential property owner: What we mean by this is that you should promote the character traits that make you the ideal resident and pet owner. Show that you are responsible with a letter of reference from your current landlord explaining that you are a responsible pet owner. Maybe you have written proof that your dog has completed obedience training or that your puppy is enrolled in one. A letter from your vet showing that your dog has all its shots and is spayed or neutered is helpful. Explain that your pet is house trained or litter box trained. Speak about what you do to properly dispose of your pet’s waste when you are outdoors. Many pet owners are looking for long term housing. If this is the case for you, let the landlord know about it. Let your landlord know that you understand that living with a pet is a privilege not a right at their property.
More Apartment Hunting Tips for Pet Owners:
3. “Sell” Your Pet to each potential property owner: Offer to bring your pet in to meet the landlord or invite the landlord to visit you in your current apartment home. Good impressions count. A well behaved and well groomed dog make a difference. Let the landlord know that you take care of your home. Let the landlord know that you are taking steps to control and prevent fleas. Make it clear that you keep your pet under control. Have you ever thought about a scrapbook of your pet? This will be a graphic way to showcase a well-groomed and well cared for pet.
4. Know that Pet Fees are Part of the Deal: Almost every apartment community has some pet fees and/or breed restrictions that apply. Ask about them upfront and let the prospective owner know that you are willing to pay those fees.
5. Lease Documents: Once you have been approved to have a pet in your apartment, get it in writing either as an addendum to your lease or other document that you get a copy of.
Pet Friendly Apartments in Manchester and Milford NH
At Red Oak Apartment Homes we love your pets as much as you do. We welcome dogs at over half of our properties and cats at 100% of them. We have a dog park at our Redstone, Sunset Ridge, Red Oak at 875 Elm Street, Milford Trails, Eastern Trails and the Ridge apartments. Our Properties are close to scenic locations for your to enjoy the great outdoors with your pet.
Check out our pet friendly apartments.
Need a pet friendly apartment in Southern New Hampshire? Contact us.