Finding the right place to rent, for the right amount of money and in the right location, is a tough and time-consuming task. If you are short on time or credit and need to rent a place fast, you often have limited options. However, by following a few simple tips, you can rent a home or apartment within a few days.
First of all you should be clear about your budget. If you have been renting in the past as well, then you will probably have an idea about how to determine what you can and cannot afford. However, if this is going to be your first experience of living on your own in a leased apartment, make sure you include all of your bills – electricity and gas, water and sewerage, TV, internet and phone, pet expenses, and renters’ insurance – in your calculations for how much you can afford to pay for a rented apartment.
You also need to figure out what kind of a house or apartment you want to rent, and which best suits your lifestyle. For example, if you spend most of your time at work and come home only to sleep, then a small place will do just fine, since it will be cheap and easy to maintain. If you own a vehicle, then you need a house or apartment with parking. All this while, and throughout the selection process, you need to be very clear on what your budget is.
After you have decided what kind of property you want to rent, start searching online. There are a number of real estate websites listing all the rentals in a specific area. Another option is to drive around the neighbourhood or the area where you want to live. Stay on the lookout for any houses or apartments bearing a “For Rent” sign. The only other information listed on these boards is usually the telephone number of the owner or manager. Note down the telephone number with the address, and contact the owner or manager for more details. You can also contact an estate agent to help you find a house or an apartment of your choice to rent.
Once you have found a couple of places that you like, schedule viewings and meet the landlords. If you like a particular place and are satisfied with the leasing terms and conditions, fill out a lease request.
Note: Pets may be part of your family but not every landlord wants them around, so keep that in your mind when looking for a place to rent.
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