An easy guide to finding your first place to rent

  • 26th Nov 2019
  • 3 minute read
  • Written by Ellie New
guide to finding your first place to rent

If you are not ready to buy a property but are eager to get out on your own and have your independence, then here is a guide to help you find your first place to rent.

Assess your needs

Before you scroll through countless possible options, it’s best to narrow down your search by considering a few aspects before you start. Think about the type of property you want and how it will suit your current lifestyle. For example, do you want or need a garden for yourself, your children or a pet? Also, if you have a car, you may want a property with a garage or perhaps just off-street parking? If it is your first home by yourself, you may not own much furniture, so it might be worthwhile looking at a property that is already furnished.

When considering a furnished or partly furnished property, remember that you will be responsible if any of it is damaged. This may result in you having to replace the item that was damaged or lose some or all your deposit to cover the costs of repair or replacement.

Choose the right location

The right location will be based on your budget, lifestyle and personal needs. You might want to live as close to your office as possible or if you have children, you may want to be within a certain school’s catchment area. Can you drive, or is it necessary to be close to public transport? What are the amenities like in the area and are there things that you really enjoy like walks in a park or certain types of restaurants?  All these elements should be thought about when looking at different locations and how they could impact on your lifestyle.

Filter your search

Once you have a clear idea of your search criteria, make a list of must haves and things you are welling to compromise on.  Using this list, you will be able to filter your search and pinpoint a few properties that meets your needs within the right location.  You will also be able to sign up for property alerts to find out about any new rental properties that match your search criteria to ensure you don’t miss anything.

Book viewings

Once you have a few potential rental properties that fit your needs, contact the real estat agent and arrange to see it in person. Seeing a property in person is very different to seeing it online. Seeing it in person will give you a feel for the property and what it might be like to live there. A property that you may have loved online, might have the same allure when you are standing in it.

Don’t forget your list when you go to the viewings to make sure the property is the right match. It is also a good idea to have a list of questions you would like to ask the local estate agent, such as what is included in the rent or how your deposit is protected. Other questions to ask include:

Are there any additional bills?

What is the deposit amount required?

How long is tenancy agreement?

What is the contract renewal process?

What insurance does the landlord have to cover the property? Will I need additional insurance to cover myself?

What notice period is needed when I want to leave the property?

What is the contract renewal process?

Who should I contact in the case of an emergency?

Once you have found perfect property and all the questions have been answered to your satisfaction, it’s time to sign the lease agreement and move into your new pad.

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