However, a smaller apartment that allows pets is not much cheaper than our mortgage.  

. - Consider guest amenities, house rules..hot tub..pet friendly etc- TLC.

I rent in the community and it is all-ages, and pet friendly.

If you get a BiggerPockets Pro subscription you get access to state specific landlord forms as well as things like pet addendums.

Here are a few I can think of:Make sure you have right of entry and inspections No other occupantsNo pets unless discussedmust keep on utilities at all timesmust change A/c filter monthly unless you are doing soMake sure you have a late fee policyNo additions or alterations to the propertyMust maintain renters insurance

The exiting tenants had 2 dogs and did pay a pet fee.

Be wary of dogs of all kinds even if they seem friendly do not pet them.

My house is a 4/2.5 and we allow pets.

But, then had: - Late fee splits- Pet fee splits / collected by PM- Leasing fee of 50% for new tenant- Renewal fee- Service fee for work done on the property- Higher fees for certain tenant conditions- Receives all interest on trust accounts- Full page of admin fees including resident liability program, benefit package, pet initiation fee, credit reporting fee, tenant lease renewal fee (in addition to renewal fee charged to landlord), lease draft fee, application fee, utility concierage service fee, legal notice service fee.

Now, what if I make pets welcome..With one click - I just eliminated half the competition.