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When searching for a rental home, you can use many resources: You can drive by areas you like and search for "for rent" signs, look on Craigslist.com, browse through the ads in the local newspaper or work directly with a property management company. Whatever method you choose, you should take into account the location, the prices of similar properties in the area, access to public transportation, paid utilities, parking access and maintenance.
The bottom line is that, whether you're renting a house, a condo or an apartment, it should be in an area you want to live and provide a good balance of what you're looking for in a home. - What the rent includes varies greatly from property to property. When talking with landlords or property managers, always ask if your rent includes utilities (and if so, what utilities), lawn care (if renting a house or condo), snow removal (if you live in an area prone to snow) and pet fees or deposits (many places charge an additional dollar amount each month if you have pets).
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When you've decided on a rental home, whether it's a condo, house, or apartment, sit down and review your lease with the landlord, property manager or leasing agent. Ask them to explain anything you don't understand. Remember that a lease is a legally binding document, so it is important to understand these terms.
* Length of your lease
* The penalties if you have to break your lease (move out early)
* The cleaning you're expected to perform when you move out
* Any charges that will be deducted from your deposit automatically upon move out
* Who you should call for maintenance and repairs
* Who is responsible (you or the property manager/landlord) for performing different types of repairs
* Any utilities included in your rent - When you rent a home, minor repairs can often be your responsibility. Minor repairs include chipped paint, nail holes from hanging pictures, light bulb replacements both inside and outside and filter replacements in the AC/heating system. If you're renting a house, lawn maintenance and watering may be your responsibility as well. If you are asked to pay for larger repairs by a landlord or property manager, make sure they show you in the lease where those repairs are your financial responsibility.
- When the time comes to move out of your rental, most landlords and property managers expect that you will have the home cleaned and the carpets professionally cleaned. Remove all trash from the property and request a move-out walk-through from the landlord or property manager. Make sure they tell you about any items they will likely charge you for and request an opportunity to repair those items. You can also request a letter of reference stating that you were a good tenant who paid your rent on time.
