Viewing Properties Checklist

admin    Real Estate, Tenants     property rental, property rental checklist, property rental questions

So you’ve narrowed down your search for that perfect rental unit and you’ve made the appointments to view the properties. Now you want to put together a checklist so that you don’t forget anything – and the following should help.

–      Are there bills included in the rental unit? Most likely not if it’s a self-contained property, but you won’t know unless you ask

–      Will the property be cleaned prior to move in? Will this include the cooker, the toilet, and windows? Is it possible to get the carpets shampooed?

–      How secure is the property? Does the alarm system work and are there locks on the doors and windows?

–      When looking around take note of the things you may need and if the property comes furnished you might be able to negotiate the additional pieces into the agreement.

–      Are all of your appliance needs met? Does the property have a cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer?

–      If there’s a shower check to see what the water pressure is like – you wouldn’t want to get a surprise once you move in.

–      Take a good look around and make notes of any repairs that need to be made and check to be sure the landlord intends on having them repaired prior to your arrival.

–      Be aware of any outside noises such as traffic, train lines, shops or pubs. You might want to check it out at different times of the day in order to be sure you can live with it and get the sleep you require.

–      Check out the parking situation. If there isn’t a designated spot for you and you need to park on the street, it for residents only and will you be able to get a permit?

–      What is the Council tax band and how much was the current year’s cost?

–      If there’s a garden, do you have access and is it private or do you have to share it with other tenants? Are you responsible for maintaining the garden?

–      What is the source of heat, gas or electric? If there’s gas in the unit the landlord should be able to provide a gas safety certificate.

–      How much do you need to come up with to cover the security deposit and which deposit scheme does the landlord use.

These items should help in reminding you which questions you need to ask which will in turn assist you in your decision if there is more than one property that you think you’re interested in. Comparing ‘apples to apples’ is always the best plan of action so having a Viewing Properties Checklist would be a good idea.

10 Tips to Find Your Ideal Property Rental

admin    Tenants     perfect property rental, property rental, property rental checklist, rental property

We’d like to help you get that perfect property rental you’re looking for, and since it’s a “perfect” property for you, it’s also likely that it’s a “perfect” property for others as well. So by following these tips you will be better prepared to land the right property rental for you.

1. Determine the Perfect Property Rental

Although it seems obvious, the first thing you need to do is to figure out exactly what “perfect property rental” means to you. Most people are unable to describe what they need or want in a property rental. So by writing down your “needs” and “wants”, you’ll have a better chance of recognizing the best property rental that suits your needs.

For example, write down whether it must have a 2^nd bathroom, lots of storage, no stairs, and number of bedrooms or whether the property rental must be close to local transportation. As soon as these decisions are made you’ll be on your way to finding your “perfect” property. Before booking an appointment to view the property rental you’re enquiring about, ask the landlord if it has all of your “wants”. If not, don’t waste your time.

2. Use the Internet to Find Your Property Rental.

You will save a lot of time and energy searching if you go directly to the area agent’s website. By using the agents direct website you’re more likely to find an up-to-date listing, rather than the portals that can be quite out of date.

3. Have your references ready.

Landlords and Letting Agents will require them so make sure you have your financial or employment reference that shows you are financially capable of paying the rent. Your income should show that you make two and a half times more than the rent. If you are self-employed your accountant will need to prepare a statement that indicates ability to pay the rent.

If you can secure a letter from your previous landlord that claims you were an ideal tenant who paid on time and kept the property in good condition, it will also go a long way. Make sure you also inform your referee’s to expect a phone call so time is not wasted waiting on replies.

4. Let your present landlord (if applicable) or letting agent know that you will be leaving.

Giving appropriate notice is ideal and if you are able to move into the new property quickly, you will be put on the top of the priority list for the new landlord or agent.

5. Visit the Area.

If there’s a particular you would like to live in, visit the area so you’ll be more equipped with information such as close proximity to shops, schools, transportation etc. Very often these areas will have a local board that will post local phone numbers for agents in the area.

6. See as Many Properties as Possible.

Make a list of the most desirable properties and try to get in to see as many as possible at one time. If most people can only see properties after work or weekends, try to take a day off so you can see many in one day. This might give you an advantage if you can see properties before anyone else.

7. Don’t Hesitate.

When you see the property you think is right for you, don’t hesitate. If it’s the right property for you someone else is thinking the same thing. Put a deposit down immediately so that the landlord knows you are serious. If you wait, the property will go to the first person that’s ready and willing to commit.

8. Offer the Longest Rental Period.

If possible offer the longest rental period you can so that the landlord will see you mean to stay. Landlords don’t like to have empty properties, and although he will likely offer a 6 month term, by stating your intentions of being a long-term tenant, it should put you on the top of his list.

9. Move In Quickly.

It’s important to be prepared to move in as quickly as possible. Even if you don’t intend to move in on the date you specify, landlords want to have tenants move in within days not weeks or months.

10. Make a Decision!

And lastly, Make A Decision! By procrastinating like so many others, the
perfect property will slip through your fingers. Don’t wait and over think your
decision – it could be too late!

Good luck with your search!