As an international student heading to the U.S., finding affordable housing near your university is already a big task. But if you have a pet—whether it’s a dog, cat, or another furry companion—the process can feel even more daunting. Pet-friendly apartments near universities can be harder to find, and they often come with additional challenges, including higher rent or pet deposits. Fortunately, there are strategies to help you navigate this, and RentYard can make the search for pet-friendly housing much easier.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to find the right apartment for you and your pet, while keeping costs manageable. We’ll also show you how RentYard can help simplify your search for both pet-friendly and affordable housing options near your university.
1. Start Your Search Early
When looking for an apartment near a university as an international student with a pet, the earlier you start your search, the better. Pet-friendly apartments are in demand, and many landlords limit the number of pets they allow in their rental units. Early planning gives you more time to find the perfect apartment and ensures you don’t miss out on available listings.
Why Early Search Matters:
- Limited Availability: Pet-friendly units are typically fewer in number, especially in high-demand areas near universities.
- Flexibility: By starting early, you can be more selective about your choice, ensuring you find a place that suits both your pet’s and your lifestyle needs.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard makes it easy to start your search early. The platform allows you to filter listings for pet-friendly apartments, ensuring that you only view rental options that accommodate pets. You can even check for availability months ahead of time to secure a spot near your university.
2. Understand Pet Policies in the U.S.
Before diving into the housing search, it’s important to understand common pet policies in the U.S., especially when renting near university campuses. Many apartments and rental homes have specific rules when it comes to pets. These may include restrictions on the size, breed, or number of pets, and additional pet deposits or monthly pet fees.
Common Pet Policies:
- Pet Size and Breed Restrictions: Some apartments allow only small pets or have breed restrictions (for example, banning larger dogs or certain breeds deemed “dangerous”).
- Pet Deposits/Fees: Landlords often require a pet deposit (refundable) or a pet fee (non-refundable), which can add to the upfront costs.
- Pet Rent: Some landlords charge an additional monthly pet rent, which can increase your monthly expenses.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard allows you to filter pet-friendly apartments based on specific pet requirements, such as size or breed restrictions. This helps ensure you don’t waste time looking at properties that won’t accommodate your furry friend.
3. Look for Apartments with Additional Pet-Friendly Features
Some landlords go above and beyond in making their apartments suitable for pets. Look for listings that offer pet-friendly amenities that can make life easier for both you and your pet.
Features to Look for:
- Pet Parks or Play Areas: Apartments with pet parks or dog runs are great for pets that need space to play.
- Pet Washing Stations: Some apartments provide pet washing stations, which can save you a lot of time and effort after walks or playtime.
- Close to Green Spaces: Apartments located near parks or nature trails are ideal for dog owners who want to give their pets plenty of outdoor exercise.
RentYard Tip:
On RentYard, you can filter listings by pet amenities such as pet parks or nearby green spaces. This makes it easier to find apartments that cater to both your living needs and your pet’s well-being.
4. Consider Your Budget and Additional Costs
While pet-friendly apartments are a must for pet owners, they can also come with higher costs. Aside from rent, you may need to factor in pet deposits, pet rent, or even insurance premiums if required by the landlord.
It’s important to assess whether these extra costs fit within your budget. Remember to also account for pet care costs like food, grooming, and medical expenses. Finding an apartment that is affordable while still allowing you to keep your pet is a balancing act.
Budget Considerations:
- Pet Deposit: Be prepared to pay a pet deposit upfront, which can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the apartment.
- Pet Rent: Pet rent is an ongoing expense, typically between $25 to $50 per month.
- Additional Fees: Some places charge a one-time non-refundable fee or even have insurance requirements for pet owners.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard helps you stay within budget by offering a wide range of listings with different price points, including pet-friendly options. The platform provides all the details about extra fees (such as pet deposits and pet rent), allowing you to compare and select the best options for your budget.
5. Use University Housing Resources
Many universities offer resources to help students find housing near campus, including assistance in finding pet-friendly rentals. Your university’s housing office or student services may have partnerships with local landlords and property managers who have pet-friendly apartments available.
How University Housing Resources Can Help:
- Verified Listings: Some universities have verified housing listings that are specifically pet-friendly.
- Off-Campus Housing Platforms: Many universities provide access to online platforms where students can search for housing near campus, with filter options for pets.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard offers more than just a list of apartments—it also has pet-friendly filters that ensure you only view listings that meet your pet’s needs. In addition, RentYard offers apartments in popular university areas across the U.S., saving you time and effort.
6. Consider Roommates Who Have Pets
If you’re willing to share an apartment, consider looking for a roommate who also has a pet. This way, you can potentially split the costs of pet deposits, rent, and other fees.
Benefits of Roommate Agreements:
- Shared Pet Costs: If your roommate has a pet, you can split the costs associated with having pets in the apartment.
- Mutual Understanding: Living with someone who has a pet can reduce misunderstandings about pet behavior and responsibilities.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard’s roommate-matching feature allows you to connect with students who also have pets. This can help you share both the living space and the financial burden associated with renting a pet-friendly apartment.
7. Check for Hidden Pet Fees
Some landlords or rental companies charge hidden fees that may not be immediately obvious when you first inquire about the apartment. These could include charges for cleaning, pet insurance, or pet-specific maintenance. Always ask the landlord or property manager to clarify all potential costs upfront.
Potential Hidden Fees:
- Cleaning Fees: Some places charge extra for cleaning after you move out due to pet-related wear and tear.
- Pet Insurance: Certain apartments may require pet insurance as part of the lease agreement.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard helps you find detailed listings that include all fees upfront. This transparency ensures you’re fully informed about any additional pet-related charges before you commit to a lease.
8. Understand the Lease Terms
Make sure to review the lease agreement carefully, paying close attention to clauses regarding pets. It’s important to understand the terms of pet ownership in your lease, including whether pets are allowed in all areas of the apartment complex (e.g., common areas, pools, or gyms).
Key Lease Terms to Review:
- Pet Addendum: Most pet-friendly apartments will require a pet addendum to be added to the lease.
- Rules and Regulations: Review any specific pet rules, such as leash requirements or restrictions on where pets can go within the complex.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard provides comprehensive details about lease terms and pet policies directly within the apartment listings, so you can ensure that you understand all the rules and fees associated with pet ownership before signing a lease.
9. Explore Off-Campus Housing
In many cities, university dorms and on-campus housing often have stricter pet policies, or they may not allow pets at all. Off-campus housing tends to be more flexible when it comes to pet ownership. However, you’ll need to be proactive in finding these options.
Benefits of Off-Campus Housing:
- More Pet-Friendly Options: Off-campus apartments and houses are often more flexible with pets.
- More Space: Off-campus housing tends to offer larger units or houses, which can be beneficial for pet owners.
RentYard Tip:
RentYard specializes in off-campus housing near major universities, including a wide selection of pet-friendly apartments. You can easily filter your search by amenities, location, and pet policies, ensuring you find an apartment that suits both you and your pet.
Conclusion: Find Pet-Friendly Housing with RentYard
Finding a pet-friendly apartment near a university in the U.S. as an international student can seem daunting, but it’s absolutely possible with the right approach. Start your search early, understand pet policies, and use tools like RentYard to find affordable and pet-friendly housing options.
With RentYard, you can filter by pet amenities, lease length, and price to find the perfect apartment for both you and your pet. The platform offers a wide variety of listings near major universities, ensuring you find a comfortable and pet-friendly home that