Flats for Rent – Know What To Look For

Many people forget to check key aspects when renting a flat or house. One needs to remember that this is going to be your home, your retreat from the stresses of life.

It is very important to find a comfortable flat or house in a secure location and that all your needs are met. We have put together a couple things you must check when you are going to rent a property.

Probably the three most important aspects to take note of when looking for a flat to rent are location, location and location.

Finding your dream house or flat is important, but one must take into consideration the area in which you plan to rent your home.

What is the area like? Is it clean? Do you see children playing in the streets? Ask some of the local residence for their opinion on the area.  What do they feel are the ups and downs of the area, just to get an idea of what you are getting into. What services are available in the area? What schools are close by and what are they like? Does the area easily connect you to major roadways or is it situated close to your work?

These are all important questions to ask yourself when it comes to selecting an area.

Always start off by establishing your requirements for houses and flats you would like to rent.

Here are some questions to help you determine what your personal requirements are:

• How many rooms will you need?
• What type of kitchen are you looking for?
• Will you require a study or office space?
• Do you want a garden?
• Do you want a pool?
• The size of your living space required?
• Will you require a garage and how many?
• What kind of security are you looking for?
• How important is your privacy?
• Do you have pets or want pets?
• Any additional facilities you require.

These are all important and will affect the price you are going to pay, and remember that there is no point in getting house or flat that is larger than what you need. One must also remember to only rent or let something you can actually afford. Some say you should not pay more than 30-36% of your salary for rent and property bills.

The property itself – what should you look out for? Remember that this is your space, your home, your escape from life. Only agree to the lease if you feel 100% sure that this is what you are looking for.

When viewing houses or flats for rent, there are a couple things you are strongly advised to look out for:

• Check the plumbing – do all the taps and toilets work properly?
• Check the wiring – do all the lights work, check for wire sticking out or black marks on plugs.
• Check the windows and doors to see how secure the property is.
• What other type of security does the house or flat offer?
• What kind of neighbors will you have – if you can, try find out a little about your neighbors.
• Can you paint your flat or house in a different colour, and can you hang pictures? Some property landlords do not allow this.
• Does the flat you want to rent have a garage or secure parking?
• Check for any cracks or patches on the wall.
• And if you have pets, remember to make sure that the property you want to rent is pet friendly.

When it comes to the lease and rent payments, remember to check the following:

• The property rental – is it to be paid weekly or monthly?
• How much rental deposit is required?
• What is the notice period that you’ll have to give if you decide to leave?
• What is the initial period of your lease?
• Does the property you want to rent come furnished or not?
• Does your rent include water and lights?
• Are there any additional levies that may need to be paid?

Hopefully the above will help you find a great flat for rent or house to rent that will cover all your needs from security to your family requirements.

If you have had a bad experience or if you’ve got some advice to give, please tell us about it by leaving a comment below.