Bellingham/Whatcom County dog-friendly rentals (Seattle, Lynden: real estate, condo, good credit)

[Brandathy]

I'm considering a move to Whatcom County next year. I'd prefer not to buy property immediately since I'd like to get a feel for the area before committing to real estate. However, I do have three dogs and one cat. Two dogs are large but are not considered "difficult" breeds (standard poodle and English mastiff). All all spayed/neutered and I will not be getting any more. I am a 40-something registered nurse with good credit and am willing to consider a wide variety of living situations (single-family home, town home, condo; located in Bellingham proper or any of the smaller towns such as Blaine or Ferndale (the only exception is Lynden-I am quite liberal and do not think Lynden and I would jibe), or a rural property. Is finding such a rental at all possible? I'm willing to pay a premium and/or live in a less-conventional structure such as a mobile home. Any suggestions as to where to look would be most appreciated! Craigslist has so far been less than encouraging.

[west seattle gal]

I think that will be really difficult. You may have to find somewhat run down property in a very rural area, but most rentals with any amount of carpet or landscaping do not want 4 pets. Bellingham is the most liberal area in Whatcom county but a lot of the rentals either go to students or have pet restrictions. I would reconsider buying.

One site that can be used to search for rentals is zillow. I can't imagine a better site than craigslist when looking for rentals that permit large dogs. It always worked for us.

[poopskooper]

I was going to suggest that you contact one of the property management services (often but not always provided by the realty offices) but when looking at a few of the websites of such services in Bellingham, I was surprised to find the usual restrictions placed in the description of just about every rental that is available ...i.e. no smoking/pets/students/housing assistance.

I too agree with west seattle gal that you may have difficulty with three dogs and one cat finding something. I also would suggest to keep checking places such as craigslist to see if you can't possibly negotiate the pets situation with the landlord. Landlords in college towns often get burned by renting to students so may much more likely be willing to negotiate with a responsible older adult with pets than having a bunch of rowdy students in their rental.

[DogLovinGal]

I am currently purchasing property in Skagit county. My realtor lives in Whatcom county. He said real estate has shot up 10% in Whatcom county since January 2016, and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Seattle is on par with being among the most expensive cities to live in, and Bellingham is following suit. You might want to reconsider buying, as you'll be kicking yourself a year from now just for the sake of getting a feel for the place. It will be very difficult for you to get a place with pets.

[Brandathy]

Thanks everyone so much for your input! Definitely lots to think about.