Owner's Guide (Part 1): Mission “Rent with a Pet” – how to find a home for us and the dog/cat

Bansko is a paradise for dogs – endless mountains, clean air and rivers. But for their owners, finding accommodation can be hell.

The common answer to the question “Do you accept pets?” is a short “No.” In many gated complexes, the ban is general (by decision of the General Assembly), and private landlords are afraid of damage.

However, hundreds of people with pets live in Bansko. Here are the strategies that work to get you to say “Yes.”.

1. Dog or Cat? (It matters)

The landlords in Bansko have various prejudices:

• For dogs: The main fear is noise (barking) and hygiene in common areas. It is easier to find accommodations for small breeds than for large ones.
• For cats: Here the fear is entirely material – “it will tear my sofa and curtains”.

The pet's peace of mind is key for owners.

2. The “Pet Resume” Strategy

It sounds strange, but it works flawlessly with foreign landlords and more modern Bulgarian owners. Prepare a short presentation (on your phone) to show immediately:

1. Photo: The most graceful and peaceful photo of the animal.
2. Description: Breed, age (adult animals preferred), neutered/dewormed.
3. Habits: “"He has been taught hygiene habits, he doesn't bark when he's alone, he's used to living in an apartment."”
4. Reference: If you have a previous landlord who can confirm that you left the apartment clean, that's a golden trump card.

3. The financial argument: “Pet deposit”

If the landlord is hesitant, offer a solution that covers his risk.

• Double deposit: Offer to pay two rent deposits instead of one.
• Pet Cleaning Fee: Offer to pay a deep cleaning fee (e.g. 100 BGN) in advance upon check-out. This reassures the owner that they won’t have to clean hair from the carpets.

4. Where to look? (Pet-Friendly Zones)

Some places in Bansko are historically more open to animals:

Private houses and floors of houses (Old Town)

Owners of houses with yards are much more likely to accept dogs than managers of shiny complexes with carpeted hallways. Look in the neighborhoods around Glazne or above the church.

The complexes next to the mountain

Some complexes in the “Gramadeto” area (the upper part) are used to tourists with dogs.

5. Contract clauses

To protect both yourself and the landlord, include a pet clause in the contract:

“The tenant has the right to keep one dog (breed X). The tenant is obliged to repair all damage to the furniture caused by the animal and to clean up after it in the common areas.”

This shows responsibility and professionalism.