Are you a first time tenant? Or perhaps it’s been a lifetime since you considered renting a property again? This blog contains 5 of our top tips for first time tenants (or out of practice tenants) in 2021. Let’s get started.
How Much is Your Deposit and What Can You Afford?
Getting your finances in order before you start looking to rent is wise to avoid disappointment if you come across the house of your dreams. Have a look at rental properties in the area you are interested in and see what the going rate is to estimate how much you are likely to need.
Create a Checklist
It’s easy to be swayed by a potential new home and excitement can take over on viewings, but does this place really have everything you need and want? Creating a checklist can help keep you grounded when looking at properties. What do you need out of a property? does this property have what you need? Also check if the property will be furnished, part-furnished or unfurnished to avoid surprises when you get the keys.
Location Location Location
If you’re looking to move away from the area you are currently living in, it’s a good idea to do some research in the area you want to move to and see if the location is a good fit. Are there schools nearby? will you need to travel far for work? are there ways of commuting if you do need to travel? Is it a quiet neighbourhood? Is it lively and full of things to do?
Moving Day
Thinking ahead will ensure less stress when moving day comes around. If you’re a first-time tenant, the chances are you won’t have many large household items but if you do have large items or a large number of smaller belongings, perhaps you will need to hire a removal company or at the least draft in some family or friends with a van.
Get Organised!
There are lots of things to think about as you begin to settle in to your new home. Don’t forget to read your gas and electricity meters on the day you move in to ensure your bills are correct. Other things to think about are re-directing your mail from your previous address, changing your address with your bank or the DVLA, setting up your TV Licence, finding out what day your bins will be collected and even if there are any parking restrictions or permits on your area. The small things are important.
It’s time to make a list!
We understand that being a first time tenant can be daunting but we are here to help! Our team of advisors have years of experience, see what we do here.