There are many benefits to renting, you may be moving out of home for the first time or relocating to a new suburb. Renting is an easy and flexible way to find a place to live without the financial burden of owning your own home. Whatever your reasons are, understanding the process of renting and your obligation as a tenant are extremely important. This simple guide will step you through the renting process and help you gain a better understanding of the rental process.
1. How do I find the right rental property?
The easiest way to find a rental property is to conduct an online search, there are multiple real estate agencies that are advertising rental properties. There are also apps that you can download on your phone that are specifically designed to make the process easier. When performing these searches, be specific, how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you require? Is there onsite parking? Are you looking for a house, apartment or a townhouse? Being clear on your needs will help make the process so much easier.
2. How do I apply for a rental property?
When you have found a property that you like, make contact with the agent quickly and start the application process. There will be forms that will need to be completed, providing as much information as possible will give your application a better chance of being accepted.
3. Are you a first time renter with no rental experience?
For those with no rental history, there’s no need to despair, there are still ways to secure a rental property. There are things that you can do that will help increase your chances. In particular, providing the landlord with as much information as possible regarding your financial situation accompanied by supporting references from past and current employers will assist your application greatly.
4. Leaving or changing rental properties
When renting it’s important to obtain consent from the landlord if you are thinking of making any changes to the property or completing any repairs. Also endeavour to leave a rental property the way you found it, this helps strengthen your rental profile and assist with future rental applications.
5. Your rights as a tenant
As a tenant you have certain responsibilities, these include adhering to your tenancy agreement, taking care of the property and ensuring the rent is paid. Your landlord also has responsibilities, it’s important that you know your rights as a tenant. Landlords should ensure that their rental properties are properly maintained and that they’re always in a safe and liveable condition.