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Pets and Rentals...
Pet Deposits, Pet Addenda
FOR LANDLORDS and TENANTS!
FOR LANDLORDS:
Pets and rentals... Finding rentals in Miami that are pet-friendly can be challenging. If you have a rental, consider allowing pets!!! Pets and rentals can work great together! You just have to learn how to structure the lease and deposits. There are many things you can do to safeguard against pet damage. And by opening your prospective tenant base up to those with pets, you may be lucky enough to find really great tenants that you otherwise wouldn't have found!!!
Things you can do to feel more confident in dealing with most pets and rentals situations:
Non-refundable pet deposits: Allow one pet per non-refundable deposit (owners keep, not returned to tenants like regular security deposit) in the amount of $100-$200 depending on the pet and how comfortable you are, condition of your property, etc. For instance, if you have carpet, you may need to replace carpet at the end of the tenancy if they have multiple dogs. Or, if they only have one tiny dog that's older (as opposed to a puppy which is much more likely to do damage) - maybe just $100 is fine. But consider, if your property is competing with many more similar rentals in the area... you'll need to be competitive. Don't ask for more than is needed in the situation. Tenants shop - they know what's out there and if you're asking too much of them!
Refundable pet deposits: Chances are, to be competitive... you'll need to ask for a "refundable" pet deposit. This is simply additional security for any pet damage, added to the security deposit for which you're already requiring. No damage? Tenants get full deposit back! In Miami, real estate agents and property managers typically try to get $200 per pet. If the property is located in an area where there are many rentals... in order to make the property as attractive as possible, it may be necessary to ask less.
Have tenants sign a Pet Addendum: Write down the name, age and type of pet the tenants have. Include a few lines requiring tenants to seek written approval if they want to have any more pets than those you are giving permission to initially. Add a clause that says their rent will be increased if no written permission was granted, yet there are additional pets found. And if the property is located in a condo community where they have strict pet practices... you'll need to be very strict. You could get a steep fine if your tenants have pets that weren't approved by the association (if your association requires pet approval).
FOR TENANTS:
Having difficulty finding pet-friendly rentals? Real estate agents have the ability to do very quick/easy searches for you. Let us know what you are looking for, and we'll find it! Fill out the form below and in comments, make sure you tell us how many pets you have, what they are and how much the weigh (approximation is fine). Pets and rentals don't have to be any more expensive. But what you offer to the landlord should be fair to them, to the property - and fair in the current market.
Condo buildings: many buildings in Brickell and Miami Beach allow pets under 40 lbs. It becomes much harder to find good rentals for larger dogs. Usually there is a limit of two small dogs. And there could be strict behavior that you'll need to adhere to. Many buildings require owners to carry pets in the building - until you reach outside the door. This means you have to be able to carry your pet with no problem!!! And because of strict "clean up" regulations... you'll need to adhere to the rules and regs and clean up at all times.
Let us help you! Click here, fill out the form and tell us about your pets... and we'll help you find exactly what you're looking for!
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