Moving into a rented home is no small feat! Before you start packing your bags, there are some key steps to be aware of. After all, according to Statista, nearly 27% of Americans were renting their homes in 2016. Renting is a common choice for a lot of different people and their unique living situations. With so many people moving around, having all your assets in place gives a renter a solid foundation for starting their new life.
1.Organize
The first step to take is to get organized. Before you search for a rental, determine your budget and list out any must-haves for the home that you want. Look through online listings or contact a realtor specializing in rentals to get a sense of what’s available in your desired area.
2.Research
Once you’ve narrowed down the rental options and have decided on one that looks promising, it’s time to research both the rental property and landlord. If possible, get in touch with past tenants and ask them about their experience living there. Additionally, you’ll want to research the landlord as well. See if they have a track record of not taking care of repairs or refusing to return security deposits.
3.Inspect
The next step is to inspect the rental before you sign anything binding. Take a close look at the condition of the property and make sure you document any existing damage or issues that need to be fixed. Your landlord should have given you an inspection report prior to moving in, so make sure you compare it to the actual condition of the property.
4.Sign
Read over your rental agreement thoroughly before signing it. Make sure you understand the clauses and that any requests or expectations from both you and the landlord are included in the document. If anything doesn’t seem right, don’t be afraid to ask questions or request changes before signing.
5.Move In
When everything is clear and all of your documents are signed, it’s finally time to move in! Make sure you keep all of your paperwork on file and take inventory of everything in the rental before you start unpacking. It’s also a good idea to document any issues that arise during your first few weeks in the new home so you can request repairs from your landlord.
Moving into a rented home can be exciting and takes the burden off of dealing with a mortgage. By following these tips and being diligent in your research, you’ll have a better chance of having a successful tenancy in a home that meets your needs.