8 Things to Know Before Renting Your First House

 

 

Before you set off on your journey to hunt for your very first house, read the top things to know before renting a house here.

 

Renting your first house is one of the key milestones that ushers you into life as an adult. Unlike before, you now have to worry about what you will eat, which route to use to work/school, how to maintain the apartment, the interior décor, etc.

Aside from these considerations, there are several other things to know before renting a house.

Renting an apartment is one of those decisions that you can’t rush. You have to think it through, weigh your options and most importantly ensure that it’s affordable. Below are some of the key things to consider when renting a house:

1. The Location Matters

Your choice will be determined by location. For example, you can’t live in an apartment that is 3 hours away from your workplace regardless of how affordable and beautiful it is. The rent might be affordable, but you are increasing the cost and time of your daily commute.

Always consider whether moving into a new apartment will inconvenience you. Where are the schools and hospitals located? How safe is the neighborhood? Is it safe to take a stroll down the street?

Do you have to wake up 2-3 hours earlier than usual just to get to work on time? This is likely to affect your performance at work since you are always tired.

2. Be Prepared for a Background Check

Before you start viewing the vacant houses, you might want to tie up loose ends. Property owners tend to carry out tenant background searches on prospective tenants. Landlords use this background search to determine whether you will be a problem to deal with.

For example, they will check the sex offender registry, state and county criminal records, employment history, eviction history, proof of income, and credit report.

Landlords will use the credit report to determine if you are financially responsible. The landlord can view your loan amounts, bankruptcies, credit card debt, etc. Luckily you can take a lower interest loan to pay off credit card debt.

This will help resolve your debt problems, making you eligible for a house.

3. Budget

How much do you intend to spend on the rent every month? This will give you an idea of the neighborhoods and locations to look for apartments. However, the thing with renting a house is that you will rarely stick to your budget.

You will go to a nice neighborhood with nice-looking apartments, but they’re slightly higher. Do you continue looking in the hope that you will get an apartment that fits your budget or do you settle for whatever is available? Well, that’s up to you.

If you feel that the extra cost is worth it and you can afford it, then go ahead. If not, keep looking.
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Also, remember that you will have monthly bills such as heat, electricity, renter’s insurance, cable/internet, etc. Ask around to know the monthly average for these bills. Add that to your rent and see if it’s affordable.

4. Pet Policy

One of the key questions to ask before renting a house is if the landlord allows pets in the house. You don’t want to have pets in a house that isn’t pet-friendly, which results in a breach of the tenancy agreement. This could eventually lead to eviction.

Instead of going through an eviction or possession action, bring up the pet discussions during negotiations.

5. Condition of the House Should Matter

As you view the apartment, note the areas that have been neglected and need repairs. Check whether the lighting is good and the house is insulated. Also, check if the water is flowing at the desired pressure.

Having noted down the areas that need repairs, ask the landlord if the repairs will be completed before you move in. Ensure that the repairs are done before sign the tenancy agreement.

6. Ask About History of the Previous Tenants

Ask about the previous tenants, how long they lived there, and why they left. Some tenants may have moved into better apartments or their own homes. However, you’ll find that some left because the landlord is difficult to deal with.

Other reasons include a neglected house, insecurity, noisy and nosy neighbors. Knowing this information will be vital in helping you decide whether you want to rent the house or not.

7. You May Need a Guarantor

Although not all landlords insist on guarantors, a big percentage will require a guarantor especially if you are on a low income. There is no set threshold, but the landlord will ask for a guarantor depending on how risky they perceive you. If the landlord thinks that you might have difficulties paying rent, he/she can request for a guarantor.

8. Terms and Conditions Matter

Diligently go through the terms and conditions. In case there are any terms and conditions that you want to be reviewed, be sure to question before you sign your tenancy agreement. If the landlord isn’t willing to change the terms, look for another apartment.

For example, you want to change the paint but according to the terms and conditions, it’s prohibited. Ask if the landlord will allow you to repaint the house without charging it from your deposit when you decide to vacate.

While discussing the terms and conditions, be sure to ask about your security deposit. Ask more about getting a refund in case you decide to leave. Also, ask about rent increment, you want to know the frequency at which rent is increased.

Additional Things to Know Before Renting a House

Now that you have a house that fits your choosing criteria, what next? There are a few more things to know before renting a house. Check out the outdoor amenities; are there walking trails, dog parks, pool, outdoor grilling areas, etc.

Also, ask about the service amenities; is there a laundry service, package drop-offs, etc.

Does the house meet your expectations? Does it have everything you need to feel at home? If it does sign the tenancy agreement and move in.

For more information on renting and parenting in your new home, check out more posts on our blog.