renting property
Getting Organised - Flat Hunting Basics
Finding the perfect property doesn’t happen by chance.
The ability to determine your needs, identify problem areas
and ask the right questions will help you make the right choice
before you sign the tenancy agreement. Remember, once you
have signed on the dotted line you are typically committed
for a year.
Determine your needs
Once you have determined your needs, searching for an property
will be much easier.
Price range:
Price is one the most important considerations. Decide how
much you can afford or want to spend. Remember to factor in
utility costs, parking and your usual monthly bills. Knowing
your price range from the outset will focus your search, saving
you time.
Location:
It is important that the neighbourhood you choose to live
in is well suited to you and your family. Consider the distance
from your work place or schools. Do you mind a long commute
every day? Is public transportation easily accessible? Is
it a high crime area? Is it close to amenities such as local
shops, doctor offices and the post office?
Type of property:
Consider the size of your family and the space you require
for your furniture and other possessions. Will you be happy
in 500 square feet or will you need 1000? Will a one-room
studio be adequate or do you require a one, two or three bedroom
flat? Typically, the larger the flat the higher the rent will
be.
Features and amenities:
Determine what features you need or desire in your future
home. Is an en suite or on-site laundry facility important
or do you mind going to a laundrette? Does the building feature
security features such as porter, video cameras or a controlled-access
public entry? Do you want the convenience of a dishwasher,
an on-site gym or pool, a balcony etc.?
Inspect the property
Never rent a property site-unseen. It is essential that you
tour the property and examine it closely for problems. Areas
that warrant inspection include:
The building:
What is the state of repair outside and inside? Are common
areas kept clean and in good repair? Are the walls in need
of paint? If maintenance appears to be lacking it could be
a sign of poor building management.
The property:
Upon entering the proprty take note of general appearance
and upkeep. Are the carpets or flooring worn? Are the walls
cracked or in need of paint? Is there staining on the roof
or walls (an indication of a water leak). Check all light
switches and outlets to ensure they are working. Poor general
maintenance may also be an indication of poor maintenance
in other areas.
Doors and windows:
Are there secure locks, a peephole and security locks on
all outside doors? Check for drafts around windows, doors,
light switches and electric outlets. If you are paying for
heating, a drafty property could be cold and costly in winter.
The kitchen:
Check taps for water pressure and hot water. Examine the
base of the taps for leaks and look under the sink for signs
of water damage. Turn on the hobtop and oven and check that
the refrigerator, dishwasher and any other appliances are
in good working order.
The bathroom:
Check taps for water pressure and hot water. Examine the
base of the tap for leaks and look under the sink and around
the bath or shower cubicle for signs of water damage. Press
gently on tiles. If the tiles move, it could be a sign of
water damage in the wall behind the tiles. Flush the toilet
to ensure it drains properly.
Questions to ask before you sign the
tenancy agreement.
If you have found an property that fits your needs you should
ask the landlord about important details regarding conditions
of the agreement and building regulations. Remember, the agreement
is for your protection too. Ensure that any verbal promises
are also included in the agreement. Get it in writing.
How long is the agreement?
(Typically six months short term contract, although shorter
periods including month to month are available.)
Can I sublet the apartment if my circumstances change before
the tenancy period is over?
How much do you require for a deposit?
Can I have roommates?
Are any utilities included in the cost of rent?
What about parking?
Is there special building rules regarding quiet times, pets
etc.?
What is the procedure for obtaining repairs to the property?
Is emergency maintenance available 24 hours a day?
What maintenance (if any) am I responsible for?
What changes can I make to the property (paint, wallpaper,
carpeting, pictures or shelves that attach to the wall)?
When is the property available?
When can I move in?
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