Is Downtown San Diego Real Estate Pet Friendly?

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As a prospective buyer or owner, possessing the freedom to have a dog downtown is usually based on your San Diego Home Owner's Association (HOA) rules and regulations. Generally, the HOA allows dogs, but designate weight and breed restrictions in an effort to protect other residents and communal property.

For renters however, most landlords and property management companies do their best to steer clear of tenants with animals, especially large dogs. Why do downtown San Diego property owners look down on dogs? Because your pet, and the destruction they are capable of causing to your rental unit, is a liability that is simply not worth the risk.

So, in your hunt for the perfect new home in downtown San Diego, make sure it is also the perfect place for your pooch. If pets are not allowed, ask your manager if the policy is negotiable, or if a larger deposit can be submitted. Some will say yes, others won't budge.

The best advice is to follow the rules of your lease, if you are not allowed to have pets and have signed a legal document agreeing to that policy, rest assured you will be held to every legal obligation for getting caught breaking that agreement. Besides, wouldn't you rather live somewhere that both you and your dog are welcome? No one wants to live their lavish life in downtown hiding.

For those downtown renters who are fortunate enough to own a four legged friend, we offer the following tips to facilitating the best living experience - for the both of you:

1. Pick up after you pup - Beyond it being against the law to allow your dog to go "boo-boo" and bounce, it's rude and inconsiderate of other San Diego residents and guests. The joy of having a dog comes with responsibilities, and this is one of them. The Little Italy community even provides doggy waste bags that can be found in dispensers on light posts along almost every block.

2. Start a schedule - To protect your unit, and your personal belongings, get your dog on a schedule. This means a steady, daily routine of walking, feeding, and going to the bathroom. They will know what to expect when, and so will you, while saving the cost of expensive cleaning products, replacing destroyed belongings, and sparing you your peace of mind.

3. Training - Invest in the training of your pup early on. Ambient and unfamiliar noise in downtown San Diego is unavoidable, so help them be the best dog they can be by teaching them the difference between right and wrong. The necessary training involves commands to barking; this is an investment worthy of your time, finances, and energy.

Overall, downtown San Diego dog friendly apartments, condos, lofts, and homes do exist. But living with a dog in San Diego takes more effort on your part - without a yard and large living space, and having neighbors within a much closer vicinity. To all you brave pet lovers in San Diego, here's to making the best of all your "dog-on" days!

For more information on downtown San Diego real estate, contact Derek Gilliam, with Nuvilla Real Estate.