Top Ten Tips for Renters



Even if you're just renting, it's still necessary that you choose a home or apartment that will give you the most satisfaction. When moving, consider whether an apartment is energy efficient, low maintenance, accessible to the places where you need to go, and of course – comfortable! Here are top tips to consider before getting ready and locating moving companies.

  1. Do your research.
    Touring the entire place to search for rental properties can be a daunting task but it can be very helpful for you. You can also surf the web to get more information about the houses or apartments within the city or town you're moving to.

  2. Inspect the property.
    Spend enough time investigating the area. When deciding to rent, see to it that you think of living in the place for long-term. It's up to you if you want to take a home inspection service as long as you are able to check all the areas in the building for any damage. Other than the house, you may also need to check the neighborhood and the surrounding areas especially if you have kids.

  3. Find a home that is within your budget.
    Before you decide on which home or apartment to rent, take time to do the math. Renting a house that's way beyond your means can just damage your credit score. It's simple to determine how much you can afford. Just get the sum total of all your monthly earnings and deduct all your expenses. The excess funds would tell you how much you should spend on renting.

  4. Haggle about the price.
    Don't immediately settle on the first price. Take a look at this way – the landowner needs you or else they wouldn't have enough source of income. You should be able to negotiate with them especially if you're planning to rent for a long time

  5. Choose the home you can easily manage.
    While renting a big house can sound really great, you don't want to choose the one which is too hard to manage. If you're living alone or you only have a very small family, why not rent a home that is just enough for all of you? Too spacious houses can just add to the expenses. Imagine having to buy tons of cleaning supplies, décors, and other stuff you really don't need.

  6. Prepare the house before moving in.
    Take time to clean the house when it is still empty. Look for all areas that need repair and have them fixed before moving your belongings. You should inform your landlord regarding the problems you found out. It's part of their responsibility to improve their facilities.

  7. Use appliances with Energy Star labels.
    Energy bills constitute a big portion of your monthly expenses. If you're using old appliances, it's more likely that they consume too much electricity. Most of the new appliances sold in the market today are rated with Energy Star which means they are not just efficient but are cost-effective as well.

  8. Read the contract. Read the fine lines of the contract. This will answer all possible questions you have in mind. When you know the rules, you're not likely to have any problem when renting.

  9. Know your rights and responsibilities.
    As a tenant, you have many rights and responsibilities. There are federal laws that cover tenant and landlord relation.

  10. Choose your neighbors carefully.
    If you're renting an apartment or a perhaps a dormitory, it is also important that you are comfortable with people around you. No matter how you avoid them, you will need to live with them and you will certainly be affected of the things they do.