It IS so frustrating. I know how you feel. I settled for my current apartment because it was very cheap, but now I am hating it and want out so badly. I just don't understand how a pet fee can be $350 for 1 DOG! I flat out refused to pay another $350 when I got Rosie. The contract said $350 for one dog up to 65 lbs. My TWO girls added together barely weigh 10 lbs. I know two dogs is twice the mess, but both of my girls are pad trained and have not had a single accident on the carpet. I said absolutely not. I luckily got my way here, but in any other leasing office that will not fly.
I want so badly to find a small house or condo w/ a yard! It would just be too much for us to afford...especially because we would need to go from a 1 BR to a 2 BR considering it is likely we will have a baby in the next 5 yrs or so. In this area it is all either crappy apartments, luxury student apartments, or large houses.
Our lease is up next August and we will not be renewing. I am determined to find a condo or house where my girls can play outside. Here, there is no grass, all pavement and I'm sick of the smell of potty pads so once we move, they will have to learn how to go potty outside. That'll be a trainwreck in and of itself.