Should you buy a condo with a dog? Interesting question and
definitely something to think about if you have a dog or more than one.
Condo living is easy. No question about it. There is less to take care
of than with a house. When you leave, you just lock your door and
go. Everything outside your drywall is taken care of by the condo
association. Sounds good, right? It is good for many people and it
may be for you too. But, if you have a dog, there are some things to
consider before jumping in.
First, does the condo accept pets? In other words, is it a pet-friendly
condo? If they do accept dogs, do they have a weight limit? How about
breed restrictions or maximum number of pets? If a condo accepts pets up to
20 pounds and you have a Golden Retriever, you may have a problem. Or if they
accept one pet and you have two, you may have an issue.
Do the rules of the condo require you to vaccinate your pets? Many
condominium buildings do. Not everyone believes in vaccinating their pets
today. Rabies is required by law in many areas, but I'm talking about other
yearly vaccinations. Some people titer their pets. They do a blood
test to determine if your dog or cat still has antibodies to previous
vaccines. If they do, nothing more is required. If they do not, your
pet will receive the appropriate vaccine. This is fine, but will it work
with the condo association. Something to inquire about.
Is your dog a barker? Occasional barking is one thing, but if your dog
has separation anxiety or is just a barker, condo living may not be a good fit
for you. Neighbors may complain. You don't want to have your dog deemed a
nuisance, as many of the condominium documents address just this issue. Your
neighbors are entitled to peace and quiet in their homes. If you have a barker,
you may want to consider a townhouse or single-family home instead to head off
any potential issues.
How about walking your dog? Are there grassy areas nearby? Does the
association supply dog bags? Will your dog be allowed to walk on the elevator,
or will you be required to carry him/her? How about the lobby, are dogs
allowed to go out through the lobby or must they use an alternative
exit/entrance? You and your furry friend may be fine with the condo's
rules, but you should be aware of them before you buy.
Condos have more rules and regulations than townhouses or houses, but many
people love living there - with their pets. They key is to find a condo
that is pet friendly, so they will welcome your furry friend. You do not
want to get funny looks or to feel you and your friend aren't welcome, even
though you were able to get them in.
If you're planning to buy a condo with a dog, it needs to be right. Please
check all facts first.
Elyse Berman, PA, CRS is a Pet-Friendly REALTOR® who has been
helping people buy and sell homes for the past 16-plus years. She serves Palm
Beach County, Florida. Check out her blog.