About

Locally Owned.
Community Focused.

DogHouse Properties is proudly owned and operated by Sean and Nancy, a local family committed to creating exceptional places to live and work in Alexandria.

They believe a well-managed property does more than provide four walls—it contributes to stronger neighborhoods, supports local businesses, and helps people feel connected to the community around them.

Living in Alexandria has given them a deep appreciation for everything the area has to offer—from its beautiful lakes and year-round recreation to its welcoming small-town spirit and vibrant local businesses.

They're proud to help others experience that same sense of belonging by providing thoughtfully maintained homes and commercial spaces where people can build their next chapter.

Have a question?

General

All DogHouse Properties are located in Alexandria, Minnesota. We offer a thoughtfully curated collection of residential homes and commercial spaces in desirable neighborhoods throughout the community.

We offer:

  • Single-family homes
  • Furnished and unfurnished rentals
  • Commercial retail and office space
  • Long-term residential leases
  • Select short-term rental opportunities (when available)

Each property listing is clearly marked as:

  • Available
  • Coming Soon
  • Leased

If a property isn't currently available, you can join our waiting list and we'll notify you as soon as something opens up.

Absolutely.

Simply click Schedule a Showing or complete the inquiry form on the property page. We'll reach out promptly to arrange a convenient time.

Applying

Our application process is simple.

  1. Submit an inquiry.
  2. Tour the property (recommended).
  3. Complete our online application.
  4. Complete the TransUnion SmartMove background and credit screening.
  5. Once approved, we'll guide you through signing your lease.

We evaluate several factors, including:

  • Credit history
  • Income
  • Rental history
  • Employment verification
  • Background screening

Our goal is to ensure a great fit for both our tenants and our properties.

Yes. The background and credit screening fee is paid directly through our secure screening partner during the online application process.

Most completed applications are reviewed within 1–3 business days.

Leasing

Most residential leases are twelve months unless otherwise noted.

Commercial lease terms vary depending on the property.

Yes. For residential properties, a security deposit equal to 1-month’s rent is due at signing. An additional $250 pet deposit is required if you have pets.

Rent is due on the first day of each month.

You'll receive automated reminders before your payment is due.

Rent payments can be made securely through our online payment portal.

Yes. We encourage automatic payments for convenience and peace of mind.

Maintenance

Maintenance requests can be submitted online through your tenant portal or by contacting us directly.

Examples include:

  • No heat during winter
  • Major plumbing leaks
  • Gas smell
  • Electrical hazards
  • No water
  • Broken exterior door or window creating a safety issue

If it's an emergency, contact us immediately. If you cannot reach us and immediate action is needed to prevent damage or ensure safety, you may contact the appropriate emergency service provider. Please notify us as soon as possible afterward.

We pride ourselves on real-time responsiveness.

Most inquiries receive a response within a few business hours, with emergencies prioritized immediately.

Utilities

This varies by property.

Each listing clearly identifies which utilities, if any, are included.

This depends on the property.

Please refer to the individual listing or lease agreement for details.

Moving in

Once approved, we'll:

  • Send your lease electronically
  • Collect your security deposit and first month's rent
  • Schedule your move-in
  • Provide move-in instructions and property information

No. We do not complete a move-in condition report. We trust our tenants to maintain the property and return it in the condition in which they received it.

Current Tenants

We'll contact you well before your lease expires to discuss renewal options or move-out procedures.

In many cases, yes.

Renewals are based on property availability and lease history.

Commercial properties

Yes.

Our commercial properties are designed for local businesses looking for clean, professional spaces in Alexandria.

Contact us to discuss lease terms and availability.

Contact

We're here to help.

You can:

  • Submit the Contact Form
  • Call/Text us
  • Email us

We strive to respond as quickly as possible during normal business hours.

Pets

Many of our properties are pet-friendly.

Pet policies vary by property, so please refer to the individual listing.

Additional pet deposits or monthly pet fees may apply.

Why DogHouse Properties?

We're owner-operated, which means you'll always work directly with the people who own and care for the property—not a large management company.

We believe renting should be straightforward, responsive, and built on trust. That's why we focus on:

  • Well-maintained homes and commercial spaces
  • Honest, transparent communication
  • Fast response times
  • Respectful relationships
  • Long-term stewardship of every property we own

Our goal is simple: To provide exceptional service, communication, and problem-solving to make every stay as seamless as possible.