When you move into a new rental home, the whole process can be a bit of a rush, especially if you’re moving to a brand-new area and need to settle on somewhere asap. However, no matter how much of a rush you’re in to move in, it’s well worth working with a real estate agent to ensure the whole process runs smoothly.
With an agent covering your back, you can be sure that you’re getting a decent deal. However, it’s a good idea to ask your agent the following 9 questions to ensure you know what you’re getting into from the get-go.
Who is Managing the Property?
Knowing who is in charge of managing the property that you’re renting is extremely important, and an embarrassing detail that can be neglected until you need to know in case of an emergency. Check with your agent who your point of contact will be once you move in. Will you liaise with the landlord directly, or is a property management company in charge? Be sure to save the point of contact details, and also inquire as to what the process is for an out of hours emergency — is there a separate number?
What Are the Clauses in the Contract?
It’s too easy to breeze through the lease agreement and not pick up on the clauses until you’ve broken them. Most landlords do set a number of restrictions within the contract, so be sure you’re happy with them before you sign. Typically, restrictive clauses cover things such as pet ownership, decorating restrictions and sub-letting procedures. Be sure to ask your agent to clarify the small print if you’re not sure.
How Much Are Utilities and How Are They Paid?
It’s well worth getting an estimated breakdown of how much you can expect to pay in utilities each month. Ask about the HVAC system, and any other utilities and appliances to check if they’re efficient, or likely to cost you more than they should each month. This will help you budget, and may determine whether you choose one rental over another. Find out how the payment of utilities is split if you’re in a shared rental, and who is responsible for paying them — do you pay them directly, pay the landlord, or are they included in the rent?
What About Internet Access?
It’s also a good idea to check whether internet access is already set up, or if that’s something you’ll need to take care of when you move in. This is especially important for the growing number of freelancers and those that work from home.
Who is Responsible for Maintaining Shared Spaces?
If your rental property has any shared spaces, such as a garden or hallway, it’s good to be clear on who is responsible for keeping them clean and properly maintained. In the case of a shared garden, you should also ask whether there are any restrictions on gatherings, grilling, or even growing your own plants.
What’s Included in the Rent?
Find out exactly what the rent covers, as this can differ from landlord to landlord. In some cases, it covers the rent, utilities and a variety of service charges. In other places, you might be hit with unexpected service charges periodically. Ask in advance so you know what to expect.
What Condition is the Property in?
If you’ve visited the property in advance, chances are you know whether it’s habitable or not. However, a quick tour is rarely enough time to get to the bones of a property, and it’s a good idea to ask your agent if they can have a more thorough look around. Ask them to document any damage or defects before you move in, so that you can prove you’re not responsible if it comes to it. It’s also worth checking appliances and heating systems before moving in.
How Secure is the Unit?
You’ll want to know how secure your next potential home will be, not only for peace of mind, but also in order to determine the cost of contents insurance. Ask your agent to list all the security features, including alarms and locks.
Can You Go Through the Lease Agreement One More Time?
Before you take the plunge, make sure that you’re crystal clear on the contents of your lease agreement. If this means asking your agent to go through it one more time, go for it. Double check everything and don’t sign anything until you’re satisfied that you fully understand the terms and conditions.
