Apartments for Rent
Looking for apartments for rent can be a real ordeal if you don’t know what steps to take. Applying some techniques will not only facilitate the process but also help you find a better deal.
Here are 10 tips to help you optimize your time and money, and turn the possible odds in your favor.
1 – Search the Area
Searching the area you plan to relocate should be your first step. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is necessary to assess the qualifications of your future rental environment. In addition to the inner quality of housing, carefully check access to transportation and local services. If you have kids, you may also need to check the school performance profile as well as other important criteria such as crime rates. If possible, you may go to the apartment and ask a couple potential neighbors to share their experiences with you.
Your search shows it is okay to live there, but is the rent at your fingertips. Okay the place is safe and lovely, but can you afford it? Certain places can be expensive. For instance, Los Angeles apartments for rent can be less expensive than in NYC. True, the apartment pleases you. But what if it is too expensive for you? Do not get carried without having your bank accounts ready and you are sure you can take charge in the months or years to come.
3 – Prepare your rental record
No renter like a record with unpaid bills. Renters usually select tenants that represent less risk. Therefore, if you are looking for an apartment to rent, keep your record clean. When you are going to see the landlord, keep your documents on you in case they are required. Certain documents need include last three payslips and Latest rent receipts. You may also need to walk with an employment contract, which ensure the renter you are financially stable.
4 – Request an Inventory
Your search for apartments for rent is not over after you find the apartment you want. The building may look good outside and deceiving in the inside. Require an inspection to prevent regretful surprises. The inventory allows you to identify any damage related to the previous tenant for which the landlord may charge you when you are leaving. You must take a close look on everything and take note in finding anything that appears to be faulty. A simple but great thing to do is to take pictures. This is very important because, at the end of the lease, you may be required to repair the damage that was not caused by you.
5 – Read Carefully the Contract
If you are dealing with a particular tenant, it is important to read carefully the contract to detect possible tricky clauses. They are common in renting. For example, you can sign a contract that forbids you to have someone stay in your apartment. In fact, some leases may charge you extra for guests who stay more than a couple days. You may not be able to have pet. This is just a couple examples. There are many other unfair terms that you may not like.
6 – No Payment before the Contract
The first payment of rent and the security deposit are made when signing the lease. No way should you pay anything in advance. If the so-called renter requires this advance payment online, this a BLOODY red flag; be cautious.
7 – Pay Your Rent on Time
Some people take the habit to pay their bills late even if they have the money available. Do not be careless. The contract provides the due date of the rent. Make sure you respect this term; this will establish a good foundation between you and the landlord. This is good for your credit or rent record. This is also good for you in case you have financial problem which cause you to delay the payments in the future.
8 – Settle Payment Problem
Financial problem happens, sometimes when you least expect it. Do not wait to have your head under water to settle a rent payment problem. When you have a difficulty the smart action is to talk or explain the situation to the landlord that may be more conciliatory than if you flee the discussion. In addition, unpaid rent can be adjusted by installments, but when debt grows, it becomes more difficult to pay off.
- Get Renters Insurance
Renters insurance is a reliable way to legally protect your home valuables. Unlike what most people may think, a landlord’s insurance policy does not cover your personal property as a tenant. In case of an event or disaster such as flood, fire, or water-line backup, you will be responsible for the costs unless the landlord was aware of the danger and did not take necessary actions. Renters insurance is relatively cheap, with premiums ranging from $100 to $300 per year.
10 – Don’t Be a Neighbor from Hell
Finally you have your own place; it is time for you to be a good neighbor. By renting you agree to use the apartment without creating inconvenience or annoyance to your neighbors. As the name suggests, apartment is to keep people apart, not to make them miserable. Being kind to your neighbor will not cost a thing, except receiving the kindness back.
In your search for apartments for rent, these 10 tips can be applied in all circumstances and locations. They can be even more helpful for you if this is the first time you are renting. And remember, the real estate market tends to be variable; certain mistake can be costly.
