The rental market can be a scary place. With so much to consider, properties to sift through, and agencies on offer, finding your perfect home can quickly become a daunting task.
However, help is at hand. We’ve pulled together ten factors that are worth taking the time to research and mull over in order to make a well-informed decision when searching for your next long-term let. Keep reading for a complete run-down on finding a rental property that aligns with your needs.
1. Budget
First things first – what’s your budget? With all your ideal wants and needs, your budget is going to act as the foundation upon which everything else will be built on. Without a decent idea of where exactly your budget sits, you won’t be able to take each property into a fair consideration.
When determining your budget, remember to account for rent and all other associated costs, including utilities, council tax, maintenance, and deposits.
2. Location
Possibly the biggest aspect of any move is the location of your new home. When you’re looking at potential long-term lets, consider the neighbourhood – how safe is the local area? How far is it from your place of work? Are there good schools located nearby?
Especially if you’re moving to a new city, it’s worth doing your research on the specific area your ideal properties are located in before you commit to the move.
3. Local Amenities
Similarly, the local amenities will play a key factor in your decision to move. Assess the available amenities in and around the property, such as gyms, parks, shops, supermarkets, and parking space, and decide what the most important aspects are for you to have around your home.
This also ties in with whether you’re looking at a furnished or unfurnished property. For example, if a rental doesn’t come with a washing machine or dryer, you’ll want to find out whether there are any laundrettes in the local area, and how far they are from your new abode.
4. Public Transportation
Local amenities are especially significant if you don’t have a car and will need things within walking distance. Have a look at the availability and convenience of public transportation in the area if you rely on it to get around.
5. Utilities
Once you’ve scoped out the local area and decided on your budget, you can start honing in on the finer details of your next dream let.
If you’ve found a place you like in the area you’re most drawn to, one of the first things you should inquire about before you get any further along in the process is the utilities.
Does the rent include any utilities, and if not, which will you be responsible for? This includes water, electricity, gas, and WiFi. Ask about the price range of each, and budget for these additional costs.
6. Maintenance & Repairs
There are no shortage of horror stories regarding maintenance and repairs in the world of renting. To make sure you don’t wind up as a new tenant in a property that’s crumbling down around you, make sure to check the property’s condition before you make the move.
If you find that there are any existing faults, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to forgo that property entirely. Clarify the landlord’s responsibility for maintenance and repairs, and make sure any issues are fully documented before signing the lease. If it’s something the landlord is willing to take care of, you could negotiate your terms ahead of committing to move – don’t be afraid to ask questions.
7. Lease Terms
When it’s time to sign on the dotted line, it’s important to review the lease agreement thoroughly, paying attention to the duration, renewal options, and any special terms or conditions, such as pet policies and occupancy limits.
With long-term lets, you should also make sure you’re well-versed with the rules regarding subletting or terminating the lease early, just in case.
8. Insurance
Depending on the terms and conditions outlined in the lease, you might want to consider investing in renter’s insurance to protect yourself in case of fire, theft, or other unforeseen events.
9. Tenant Rights
This is also where your tenant rights come in. Familiarise yourself with the tenant rights and protection in the local area, and make sure you know the eviction process and your rights in case of any disputes.
10. References & Reviews
Last but not least, doing your research on the landlord or agency you’re working with is going to be your safest bet for ensuring you don’t experience any unpleasantness down the line.
Try and speak to any current or previous tenants if you can, and see what they have to say about their experiences with their properties. You can also find lots of handy information online in the form of reviews.
In the quest for a long-term rental, being properly informed is key. From budgeting wisely to understanding lease terms, the journey demands attention to detail. Prioritise your specific needs and evaluate every aspect of these ten crucial factors to make sure you find a home that is harmonious with your lifestyle.
Are you on the hunt for your perfect long-term let? Feel free to get in touch today to find out more about how we can help you find your dream rental property.
