Finding a home for the dog, too

By Lori Johnston

For the AJC

The Search

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Christopher Oquendo, AJC Forrest Hill stands in front of his home at Serrano in Sandy Springs.

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Christopher Oquendo, AJC No.1: Perimeter location

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Christopher Oquendo, AJC No. 2: Room for the dog?

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Christopher Oquendo, AJC No. 3: Unique floor plan

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Forrest Hill wasn’t sure whether he would continue renting an apartment or become a first-time buyer when he set out to find a two-bedroom place that was pet-friendly and close to work.

“It just became more economical to purchase,” said Hill, 30, who works in the information technology department of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group.

Hill first needed to find a community that would allow him to bring along his 65-pound dog, Kiba, a lab mix. And at 6 feet 4 inches, he needed a unit with a walk-in shower tall enough for him.

No.1: Perimeter location

A two-bedroom, one-bath unit in Villa Sonoma, a condo community in the Perimeter area, had an open floor plan and features such as hardwood floors and crown molding. Amenities like the pool area and fitness center impressed him, too. The community also had access to I-285 and Ga. 400 and other features for residents such as a theater room, concierge and billiard room. The unit, built in 2005, was listed for $153,900. Thinking of the resale factor, Hill had to consider whether a two-bath unit might be a better choice.

No. 2: Room for the dog?

A two-bedroom, two-bath unit, also in Villa Sonoma, had the space Hill needed and extra features like built-in shelving. The unit, like others in the building, came with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen. It was built in 2005 and listed for $153,000. The dog weight limit at Villa Sonoma was 50 pounds, but he presented a packet with photos and letters of recommendation from Kiba’s veterinarian and others saying he is not an aggressive animal. The homeowners association provided an official letter saying Kiba could live there.

No. 3: Unique floor plan

A two-bedroom, two-bath corner unit in Serrano, a Sandy Springs condo complex, had a floor plan that was a bit unusual compared with others he considered. Entering, you  didn't walk right into the living room, and the second bedroom was triangle-shaped. The new unit was priced in the $150,000s. The closets and cabinet space were plentiful in the bathrooms and the walk-in shower was tall enough for Hill. He found it interesting that the patio was set at an angle, too. The community was early in the process, so the weight limit for a pet had not yet been set, he said.

The Choice

No. 3

Hill gained approval for Kiba and decided the Serrano floor plan and location (less than a mile from work) were right for him. “What really sold me was I walked past the little dining area with the shelves and I walked into my bedroom, which has four massive windows -- two facing [Ga.] 400 and two facing the other direction. It just brightens everything,” he said. Hill purchased the condo in December, with appliances included. Once he moved in, he discovered another great amenity -- saunas in the fitness area. “For me, that’s like the ultimate relaxation,” he said.

Hill was assisted by Karen Smyth with Keller Williams Realty Peachtree Road.