These days, as a renter, it is very hard to find a landlord who will take on you and your beloved pet. Even if you are able to get the agreement of the landlord, you may still have to face pedantic strata committees and complaining neighbours.
Still, there are people living across Australia in apartments with pets and no problems. We will explore the options pet owners have in applying for rental properties, and give tips on how to make yourself the more attractive prospect.
- Start The Search Early
It’s most likely going to be a little more difficult for you to find a pet friendly home so start early. We’d recommend at least 6 weeks before your lease is up!
- Put Yourself In Their Shoes
Understand why the landlord, housing manager, property owner, or condominium association board members are not comfortable with having pets. Have they had a previous bad experience with tenants and pets? Is the property really suitable for the pet that you have? If you are able to address their concerns, you may be able to win them over!
- Make Use Of Available Resources
Contact the local human society or animal care and control agency, they may have material that outlines apartment complexes that are pet friendly.
If you know any real estate agents, rental managers or resident managers that also own a pet and may sympathise with you, ask them if they may be able to provide you with some leads. If all else fails, jump on the internet and see what you can find!
- If They Say No Pets, Then They Generally Mean No Pets (And Don’t Lie About It!)
Also be aware that if it’s clearly stated ‘no pets’, then your application will most likely be futile, no matter how well you sell yourself. Do you really want live in a complex or building that isn’t welcoming or appreciative of your pet anyway? And don’t even think about sneaking it in. If found out, you may be evicted immediately and they may even take legal action against you.
- Show Proof That You (And Your Pet) Are Responsible Tenants
The more documentation you can provide, the better! Try and provide the following:
- A letter of reference from your current landlord verifying you as a responsible pet owner
- A certificate demonstrating the fact your pet has completed training school or is currently undergoing it.
- A letter from your vet saying your dog has been desexed /neutered and vaccinated
- Promote Yourself
Organise a date for the owner or manager to meet your pet to see how well-groomed and behaved it is!
- Be Willing To Pay A Bit Extra
Offer to pay an extra security deposit to cover any damages your pet might make to the property.
- It’s Not All Bad!
Many landlords also know that people with pets are more likely to be families and are more likely to end up being long term tenants due to the difficulty of finding a place that house them and their pet so some see it as being a massive advantage!
Hicks Real Estate team is available to call today on: 07 3355 6845.
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Hicks Real Estate Team
Hicks Real Estate is a Brisbane based, full-service real estate agency supporting buyers and sell as well as renters and property investors. With almost 20 years experience in the local market, we are the real estate experts you can rely upon.
