subject: A Guide For Renters [print this page] Renting is the best solution for many peopleRenting is the best solution for many people. When you are renting there are several things that will make the whole process a better experience.
First, fully commit to the process. Renting a home, townhome or condo is a major undertaking.
However, many want to treat the process lightly. When you commit to the process you decide to take time researching, looking at apartments, and making the best decision for you.
Second, you can hire a tenant's agent to give you professional advice and represent you. Tenant agents are bound by contract to do everything possible to protect the Tenant's interests. A tenant should be assured of getting the best service and counseling through out the leasing process.
Third, check your credit and work to improve it. This is important because most landlords will check this information.
When you have good credit you are more likely to get the apartment you want. After all, a landlord has no other way to know how reliable you may be.
Four, choose a good neighborhood. This means choose an area that you like, but also an area that will meet both your lifestyle and financial needs.
Five, be realistic about what you need, want, and can afford. Get a place that you like and will be able to comfortably live in.
Just make sure that you are not going overboard. Choose a place that will fit the needs of you and your family without creating a stress on finances.
Six, make the right offer. Some rental properties have fixed rates while others are negotiable. Also, think about your future and how long you are likely to be in a lease or rental agreement.
Monthly rent and conditions of the lease such as security deposit, length of lease, penalties for late payment of rent, etc. are usually not too negotiable.
Seven, be flexible regarding pets. There is an obvious reason that many landlords do not allow pets. Pet owners often allow their pets to destroy or cause serious damage to the property.
The best solution to this problem is to just not have a pet. But if you must there are some rental properties that will allow you to have them although they are generally higher in price.
Eight, be pro-active about renting. Take affirmative action when it comes to your renting decisions.
This may seem to be a given to most people but it is truly amazing how many tenants think that all they have to do is sign a Tenant Representation Agreement and everything else will just fall into place.
The tenant is in charge of understanding the process and the contract. When it comes to renting the contract is a big deal.
The fact is that there are many details that only the tenant can resolve to assure a timely and trouble free move-in. They can receive counsel and assistance throughout the process but the tenant will have the best overall result by being fully aware of all aspects of the process and asking as many questions as possible along the way.
Take the time to fully understand and participate in the rental process. When you do this you will have a total understanding of the contract you are signing and be excited about the area you are moving to.
