Renting a home

If you are opting more towards a home to rent instead of buying a property you should probably approach your search for a home to rent in the same manner that you would approach your search for a new job. Here is a simple guide that will help you to avoid getting into legal or financial situations during the rental transaction.

Be prepared:

There is no better advice that can be giving to anyone who is looking into property whether it is investment properties or a home to rent.

• Get all your credit records in order and get obtain current information and permission from any referees before you go to view the property.
• All the information that is required to fill out a rental application form should be handy including a list of previous addresses, bank account details, ID document, employer information and recent payslips.
• Be prepared to pay the deposit for the property, this is usually equivalent to the first month's rent and make sure that you have the funds to cover any water and electricity connection fees and the contract fee if required. With a home to rent it is a case of first come first serve as the owner needs to have the place permanently occupied.
• When you are viewing a prospective home to rent you should take the following into consideration:
• Location – is the area quiet or noisy, is it in close proximity to shops, work and other places that you visit on a regular basis, think about your lifestyle.
• Facilities – if you are looking at a home to rent in complex type set up; would you like a swimming pool, tennis court or braai area?
• Condition – is the property in a good condition, are there any obvious maintenance problems such as damp and broken windows? Always remember to check the water pressure and the geyser and check that the windows can open and close properly.
• Size – is the property big enough for all your furniture, are there bedrooms and storage areas?
• Always enquire about the length of the rental contract, would you be expected to complete a full year term or can you give notice if you are required to move?
• Budget – are you able to afford the home to rent that matches the criteria that you have set up or do you need to downsize or look in a different area. Always check whether utilities are included in the monthly rental or whether or not that is apart.
• If this is the first time you are looking for a home to rent also remember that you should also factor home insurance into your budget, insurance for the contents of the property.

Remember as said above you should treat your search for a home to rent just as you would a job search, so when you get a viewing treat it as an interview. Always be punctual and dress casual but smart, avoid making negative comments in front of the landlord. Lasting impressions is what counts and if you come across as a good tenant you more likely be able to get a better rental price or have a rent increase deferred.

With Landgoed Verhurings you are able to view a home to rent with a search of the database on their website from the comfort and convenience of your own home. Landgoed Verhurings can facilitate your search as well as your acquisition of a new property or the rental thereof.