Sometimes, the perfect home for you isn't perfect for your pet. If you're looking for a town home or condo that allows cats and dogs, I can help you.
Animal rules and regulations are set by homeowner associations (HOA's) and vary from one complex to another. If you are planning on purchasing in a complex, you should do some due diligence to make sure that your pets are as welcome as you are. Sometimes the stipulations are a little hard to spot.
The first place to look is in the CC&R's (covenants, conditions, and restrictions) that are recorded for all complexes. Some of these documents will say that the board of directors is responsible for making rules governing the number and size of animals allowed in the complex, and others will report the rules directly in the CC&R's.
Even if you find specifications in the CC&R's, it's still important to take a look at the Rules documents, which often cover things like pets, pool rules, and parking rules. Sometimes, complexes will post changes to animal policies in Rules documents, so looking there is a good way to make sure you're up to date.
Finally, you should speak directly to the management company (or president of the board if the complex is self-managed) to really ensure that your pets will be happy, comfortable, and welcome in your new home.
As a pet lover, I have helped many people and their pets find places to live over the years. If you have a question about where to look for a pet-friendly place to live in the Silicon Valley area and beyond, please feel free to email me directly and I will help you in whatever way I can.
