Tips for First Time Renters

Taking Care of Business

Renting a house or an apartment for the first time can be very exciting. Leaving the nest for the first time can also be a learning experience. Before you begin thinking of how you want to decorate the place, it might be a smart idea to know what to expect before you sign on the dotted line.

• Know your budget before you begin looking for a rental. What is your monthly income? Knowing what you can afford ahead of time will save you from overpricing, and the risk of being evicted if you can’t afford to pay your rent each month. Remember the cost of moving in will be more than the first month’s rent. Most landlords ask for first month’s rent and security deposit up front.

• Most rental companies require you fill out an application and pass a credit and background check. You’ll need to be prepared to show some type of identification such as a driver’s license and proof of income. You’ll also need to provide your social security number. If this is your fist time and you don’t have any work history, you may need someone to co-sign the lease for you.

• Don’t forget to read the lease. Once you sign on the dotted line you are bound to that lease for the allotted time stated in the lease agreement. It’s always a good idea to go to your local housing office and grab a copy of your areas landlord and tenants laws…they are there to protect you as a renter.

• Do a Walk-Through before the move in date. Check to see if everything is in proper working order. Make a list of everything you think needs repaired. You are doing this for your protection.

• Don’t forget to have the utilities turned on. Utilities include electricity, water, cable, phone, and internet.

• Thinking of having a roomie? It’s smart to have ‘the talk’ before you both move in to your humble abode. Discuss who is paying for what and how much. Other topics to discuss might include household chores, work schedules, and mutual respect for each other’s life styles. While you might enjoy turning up the bass, you’re roommate may have just walked in the door from working a 10 hour shift. More than likely after working all day your roommate would probably prefer a quite atmosphere.

Planning ahead of time will save you headaches in the long run. After you’ve taken care of the business details you can move on to the fun part…decorating!

Don’t forget to check out all of our great rental properties. We hope you’ll find the perfect place you can call home.

Happy House Hunting!