CHOOSING THE AREA, YOU'D LIKE TO LIVE IN:
Do your research and identify specific areas in which you would like to rent. Make a list of things that really matter to you, such as transport links, schools, access to shops, and use them to focus your search. Be sure to share your must-haves and must-haves list with local real estate agents so they can get started working for you.
DEALING WITH THE ESTATE AGENTS:
Determine which local agents are selling the type of property you like in your chosen area / s and get in touch with them. Make sure the agent signs you up and provides them with all your contact details - the rental business is booming and you don't want to miss out on your ideal property.
Be very clear about when you need to move into your rental property. If you need something urgently, please let your agent know. They will show compassion and will do their best to find the right place for you.
VIEWING PROPERTIES:
Try to be approachable and as flexible as possible. Yes, we've talked about this before, but the rental business is growing incredibly fast and when good properties hit the market, there can be a rush and offers are often made immediately. You can skip if you cannot be reachable within 24 hours after the agent contacts you.
You don't have to get upset about the details of the property. If you don't like the color of the walls or the sofa is not large enough, talk to an agent. We encourage our landlords to be flexible and accommodate tenant requests whenever possible.
If you want the landlord to undertake any improvement works, or add/remove furniture, put in your request as soon as you decide to make an offer. It can be much harder to get these jobs agreed once you have moved in.
DOTTING THE I'S AND CROSSING THE T'S:
Once your offer is accepted, you will need to prepay the agent. This is usually the equivalent of 1 week's rent. This amount is then usually deducted from your first month rent. Your agent must provide you with full details of how he is handling your withholding deposit.
All estate agents will be required to conduct security checks on behalf of the landlord, so make sure you have all of your previous addresses. Likewise, inform your employer and any other experts, such as your current landlord, to request a recommendation.
FEES AND CHARGES:
When you agree to rent a property, you will be required to pay a security deposit and rent the first month before moving in. If you are pursuing a property under a guaranteed short-term lease agreement, the agent or landlord is only allowed to charge certain fees. charge before, during or after the end of the lease. All tenant fees can be found on local office microsites.
When you pay the security deposit, the agent will be responsible for putting it into an approved tenancy deposit holding scheme* and they should pass on the details to you - make sure you hold on to these. (* Where you are occupying the property under an Assured Short hold Tenancy.
ONCE IN:
Find out who is managing your property and make sure you are provided with all of their contact details. This way, if something goes wrong in the house, you will know who to contact.
Take care of the property as if it were your own. This reduces the likelihood of damage disputes at the end of the lease.
Remember that you should arrange insurance cover for your furnishings and personal property - the landlord is not responsible for insuring these items.
MOVING OUT:
Before leaving, you should familiarize yourself with your inventory document that you received upon arrival. It will show the “condition” of your property and you should strive to return the property in that “condition” with fair wear and tear. This will likely mean a thorough cleaning of the property before the clerk returns for an inspection.
It goes without saying that you should leave the property in excellent condition and take out all your belongings, otherwise you risk losing some or all of your collateral.