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Finding a Pet-Friendly Apartment in Cincinnati

Whether you already have a pet or want the option to have one in the future, you may be searching for pet-friendly apartments in the Cincinnati area. In addition to other important factors like budget and location, whether or not a pet is welcome to share a new home and the particulars of this arrangement may also be a top priority as you look for apartments. Keep reading for tips on finding a pet-friendly apartment!

5 Tips for Finding a Pet-Friendly Apartment in Cincinnati

As you begin your search for a pet-friendly apartment, you may have already discovered that many online rental sites have a pet option that you can include in your search criteria. In working with a realtor, a rental agency or property management company like Live NAProperties, you may also have specified this key requirement. However, as you explore potential dog-friendly apartments or any other pet-friendly communities, here are some other tips to help you during this process:

  1. Set yourself and your pet up for success.

One the nation’s top animal welfare organizations, Best Friends, recommends not only starting your search as early as possible but also putting together a “pet résumé” of sorts. This offering might include certificates for any training programs completed as well as references or letters of recommendation from your pet’s veterinarian, care providers, trainers or former landlords. Another recommendation is to provide proof of renters insurance that includes relevant pet coverage.

  1. Clarify the specifics of what dog-friendly or pet-friendly means for that apartment.

To see “dog-friendly” or “pet-friendly” associated with an apartment that also has many other qualities that you’ve been looking for may make you feel like you’ve won the lottery. However, before you take any further action like visiting the apartment in person, make sure you know what this kind of terminology really means relative to that specific apartment. For example, an apartment may be listed as dog-friendly but only really accept dogs that meet particular breed, age or size requirements. Similarly, a pet-friendly apartment may not be inclusive of all potential pets or have similar restrictions about number of pets allowed, type of pet, etc. For clarity around exactly how any pet-related designations are defined at that location, contact the agent or company directly and, before signing any contracts, make sure that this understanding is accurately represented.

  1. Evaluate the amenities offered at a dog-friendly apartment community or nearby.

Some apartment communities or rentals allow dogs and other pets, but others encourage their presence. For example, at Olde Montgomery, there are walking trails as well as an on-site Bark Park that residents and their pups may enjoy. In addition to other amenities like pet washing or waste stations, some apartment communities may even host social events specifically for residents and their dogs! Beyond what’s available on the property itself, you’ll also want to check out what the neighborhood has to offer, such as various pet care services and exercise spots, like Washington Park with its play area especially for dogs!

  1. Ask about fees, policies and other contract particulars in advance.

Additional security deposits or a monthly pet fee on top of the rent may accompany a pet-friendly apartment rental. Having more than one pet may further impact these total costs. Consequently, in addition to whether or not an apartment allows pet lizards or welcomes German Shepherds, it’s important to inquire about one-time or repeated fees associated with pets as well as whether these are refundable or non-refundable. Finally, be sure to review any written policies governing pets on the property before committing to an apartment, so you are aware of any space restrictions, leash requirements or behavioral considerations in your rental agreement.

  1. Try to be patient and flexible.

Finding a pet-friendly apartment that is right for all residents can sometimes take a little extra time. It may also mean that your wishes about your commute time or proximity to a specific location may need to be adjusted to find the right apartment that meets your needs. Remember too that you may need to make a concerted effort to ask about a rental’s pet-friendliness (if not posted) or take other extra steps to find the home you’ve all been searching for.

With several pet-friendly apartment locations throughout the Cincinnati area, our leasing experts are here to guide you to an apartment community that may be right for you and your pet or to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you are looking for a pet-friendly apartment in downtown Cincinnati or a dog-friendly apartment in another neighborhood or Cincinnati suburb, contact our team for assistance today!