What do most American homes have in common? A four-legged family member who's probably ruling the roost -- and social media feed.
With nearly 7 in 10 U.S. households having pets according to the Insurance Information Institute, property owners face a clear choice: adapt to this massive market or miss out. A pet-friendly rental isn't just a trend -- it's a strategic advantage that can slash vacancy rates and boost your bottom line.
Ready to transform your rental into a pet-friendly paradise without sacrificing style? Here are proven strategies to get started:
Why Offer a Pet-Friendly Rental?
Ready to attract tenants with pets? Rental property management gets easier with furry friends involved. Check out the benefits of transforming your vacation rental into a pet-friendly space:
Boost Occupancy Rates
Pet-friendly rentals often enjoy a 2-3% higher occupancy rate compared to non-pet listings. While it varies by location, detached rentals with yards usually experience the biggest pay. However, apartments and condos may not see the same bump.
Pet Owners Pay More
Attracting tenants with pets is a smart move. Pet lovers value convenience and are willing to pay more. This means more money in your pocket.
Higher Fees, Higher Profits
If you own a pet-friendly rental, the Average Daily Rates (ADRs) may stay the same. However, you can benefit by charging pet fees to boost revenue, especially in urban markets.
Steps to Create a Pet-Friendly Rental Property
Transforming your vacation rental into a pet-friendly space goes beyond a simple "pets allowed" sign. Follow these pet-friendly rental tips to ensure both your guests and their pets feel welcome.
Pet-Proof Your Space
Start by making your rental safe and cozy for furry guests. Ensure you store away hazardous items such as cords, trash bins, and toxic plants. Opt for easy-to-clean floors like hardwood or tile.
Additionally, choose furniture fabrics that are easy to maintain such as leather or microfiber. Don't forget about scratch-resistant furnishings.
Pet-Friendly Outdoor Fun
If you have a yard, ensure it's fenced for safe play. For rentals without a yard, offer your guests a list of local dog parks or pet-friendly trails nearby.
Add Pet Amenities
To make your rental pet-friendly, make your space irresistible. Here are amenities to help you in designing rental spaces for pets.
- Pet beds, toys, and treats
- Washable furniture covers
- Water and food bowls
- Pet waste bags and litter boxes
Emphasize your property's pet-friendly amenities in online advertisements to catch the attention of potential tenants.
Clear Pet Policies
Establishing clear pet policies for landlords is important when creating a pet-friendly rental. Ensure you define which types of pets are allowed, including size and breed restrictions. Also, be clear about fees or security deposits to cover potential pet damages.
These not only protect your investment but also signal to renters that you take pet ownership seriously.
Prepare for Extra Maintenance
Plan for extra maintenance for your pet-friendly rental. Frequent vacuuming, pet-safe cleaners, and air purifiers will keep your rental smelling fresh. As a result, you can create a welcoming spot pet owners will rave about.
Create a Pet-Friendly Rental to Increase Your Occupancy Rates
Creating a pet-friendly rental in Dunedin, Florida is a smart investment. Looking to maximize the value of your rental property? PMI Palms specializes in rental property management solutions that attract reliable tenants.
Get in touch to learn more.