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Pets in Sarasota Florida Condos

By Annette Smith

Real Estate Agent with Allen Real Estate Services, Inc.

December 21, 2008 10:29 PM

Buying a Condo in Sarasota? Ask Your Real Estate Agent If Pets are Allowed!

Annette Ashley Smith and Snuffy

This past three weeks, I've been nursing a family member, Snuffy Smith. Snuffy has only been a part of our family since 2004, but we now say that we live in Snuffy's house. He's the center of my universe, and how I sold Sarasota real estate or functioned without him is beyond me. Snuffy Smith took my heart right away. Over time, my son, Scott, who is bipolar, was won over by this bundle of black fur too. Neither of us knew how much a little dog would take over our home. Bipolar disorder isn't fun for the one with what I call "the gene from hell" or for the caregiver, but I can tell you this little firecracker has saved us both so when Snuffy hurt his back recently, went on steroids, it kind of rocked our world.

Because so many real estate customers have pets that are important part of their home, I want to reiterate how important it is for a real estate agent to ask their customers the right questions. In this regard, agents should ask their buyers about the number of pets and sizes making the move. All condominiums in Sarasota have different rules and regulations regarding the number of pets and the sizes allowed in a condo. Many condos allow the owners to have a pet or two on a restricted basis, and others allow none. Most condos do not allow tenants to have pets.

If you are buying a condo, tell your Realtor the facts so later you don't find out that Snuffles or Restless can't make the move with you. Don't rock your world by buying a condo without checking out the rules first!

Sarasota is a wonderful place to live for people and pets. For all your Sarasota Florida real estate, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922.

Waterfront, condos and golf course properties!

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Judi Morgan

RETIRED - San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX Real Estate

Annette, that is so true. Even neighborhood HOA Restrictions sometimes has limits on the number of pets in a household. I recently worked with a client who had 4 cats, 2 dogs and a parrot. Had to make sure the cat & dog rules would allow all 6 of cats & dog.

Dec 22, 2008 04:53 AM

Annette Smith

Allen Real Estate Services, Inc. - Sarasota, FL

Sarasota Real Estate Agent

Judi, thanks for your comment. I haven't had any customers with that many pets that were buying in Sarasota with that many pets. I have had customers with horses and restrictions apply there too. The golden rule is just to be sure to check the restrictions. It helps when our buyers let us in on how many are moving with them, doesn't it?

Dec 22, 2008 05:05 AM

Fran and Rowena, La Canada Realtors - (818) 952-0077

Dilbeck Real Estate - La Canada, CA

Annette - good advice! There is so much to remember in a transaction, but our cherished pets (aka "members of the family") are at the top of the list! Happy holidays!

Dec 22, 2008 01:46 PM

Thanks and Happy Holidays to you too Fran!

Dec 22, 2008 10:44 PM

Jim Frimmer

HomeSmart Realty West - San Diego, CA

Realtor & CDPE, Mission Valley specialist

I was working with a buyer a couple of years ago with two small dogs. The MLS listing said "dogs allowed" and didn't state any limitation. That puzzled me since I specialize in condos. I called the listing agents to inquire if two small dogs were allwed. Unequivocally, yes. Still not quite comfortable in making a purchase offer, getting a home inspection, etc., with any uncertainty, I called the HOA. Unequivocally, yes.

Nope. Not until after we did the home inspection did we get the CCRs and the contact information for the officers. One dog, yes. Two dogs, no. I called the HOA president again, and he said "Dogs are allowed." Yes, "dogs" are allowed, but only one per unit. I learned to be very, very specific, although it didn't cost me any money because my home inspector provides me with an extremely good discount since he lives with me and is also my marketing guru. It did cost me time and aggravation, though.

Today is the first day of the rest of your life -- make it a good start.

Jan 05, 2009 10:49 AM

Jim, perfect example of checking everything out and being very specific with your questions. Our new MLS system in Sarasota has a spot for size and number but does no good if agents don't do their due diligence and then enter the propert information. Thanks for commenting.

Jan 05, 2009 09:05 PM

Carl Stars

Sutton Group About Town Realty - Burlington, ON

This was basically what I worte in my very first blog. It amazes me how everybody worrys about the finances and dont pay any attention to the rules... great post

Jan 06, 2009 11:59 AM

Yes Carl, I agree finances seem to be the main concern. Thanks for commenting. This issue comes up often and I just wanted to remind agents to put in the proper details on their listing sheets. It is also helpful if customers let you know their complete needs also.

Jan 06, 2009 12:22 PM

Pets in Sarasota Florida Condos

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