At Reed and Associates, we’ve had the pleasure of managing single-family rental properties throughout the vibrant and soulful city of Memphis, TN for years. One trend we’ve watched grow year after year is the increasing importance of pet-friendly homes. Whether it’s a tenant looking for a backyard for their golden retriever or a young couple settling down with a rescue cat, the message is loud and clear: pets are family.
As property managers and community advocates, we strongly believe that welcoming pets into rental homes isn't just a feel-good decision—it’s good business.
Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Make Sense
Across the Memphis metro area, more than 60% of renters are pet owners—and that number is growing. By allowing pets, owners and property managers can:
✅ Attract a Wider, More Qualified Tenant Pool
Many families and working professionals won’t even consider a property that doesn’t allow pets. Pet-friendly rentals can stand out from the competition and lease faster. Properties that welcome pets tend to have shorter vacancy periods and higher rental rates.
✅ Encourage Long-Term Tenants
Pet owners tend to stay longer because it's hard to find quality housing that welcomes pets. A pet-friendly policy often leads to longer lease renewals, reducing turnover and vacancy costs.
✅ Reduce Unauthorized Pets
Let’s be honest—if a tenant can’t find a pet-friendly home, they may choose to bring a pet in secretly. That’s when things get complicated. Unauthorized pets can lead to unreported damage, liability issues, and strained relationships between tenants and landlords. When pet policies are upfront and reasonable, tenants are far more likely to be honest and cooperative.
At Reed and Associates, we’ve seen firsthand how offering a transparent, structured pet policy helps protect your investment while keeping communication open and expectations clear.
Memphis: A Pet-Loving City
One of the reasons we love managing homes in Memphis is that it’s a great city for pet lovers. From riverfront walks to weekend festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy life with a furry friend here.
Here are just a few of our favorite pet-friendly spots and events that make Memphis a fantastic place for pet-owning renters:
🐾 Shelby Farms Park
One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., Shelby Farms features a massive off-leash dog park, scenic walking trails, and water access for dogs who love a splash. Properties near Shelby Farms—especially those with fenced-in yards—tend to be hot commodities for dog owners.
🐾 Overton Park
In the heart of Midtown’s Overton Park, this off-leash dog park draws regular crowds of friendly pups and their owners. Rentals nearby in Cooper-Young, Central Gardens, and East Parkway get lots of attention from tenants seeking walkable, pet-welcoming neighborhoods.
🐾 Cooper-Young Festival
Held every September, this beloved neighborhood street festival is pet-friendly and community-focused—two things that Memphis renters love. Living near the action (with a yard for pets to relax afterward) is a huge perk.
🐾 Memphis Farmers Market
Open Saturdays in downtown Memphis, this open-air market allows leashed pets and even hosts themed "Pet Days" throughout the season. For renters in South Main or the Edge District, it's the perfect weekend ritual.
Protecting Your Property with Smart Pet Policies
A common concern among property owners is pet-related damage—and it’s valid. But with the right systems in place, those risks can be managed effectively. At Reed and Associates, we help owners set up:
Non-refundable pet fees
Breed and weight restrictions (if desired)
Detailed pet addendums
Regular inspections to maintain property condition
These policies create peace of mind for owners while still offering flexibility to tenants.
Building Community, One Pet at a Time
When you allow pets in your rental, you're not just filling a vacancy—you’re creating a home. Pet-friendly properties foster stronger tenant relationships, neighborhood connection, and greater pride of residence.
Here in Memphis, where community matters and green space is abundant, it just makes sense to say: Yes, pets are welcome.
Looking to make your Memphis rental more pet-friendly—or find a home that welcomes your furry best friend?
Reach out to Reed and Associates today. We’ll help you navigate pet policies that work—for owners, tenants, and tails alike. 🐾