Things to Know Before You Rent a House
Finding a house to rent is an exciting and sometimes stressful process. You have the freedom to choose the neighborhood you want to live in and decorate a new home to fit your tastes, yet sometimes your options may be limited by financial concerns. Knowing the questions to ask before signing a lease helps ensure you'll be living in the home that best suits you.
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Are Pets Allowed?
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If you have a pet, or are planning on adopting one, find out whether animals are allowed when you first contact the landlord. If the landlord says no, but you have a mature, well-behaved animal companion, make your case to the landlord. He might change his mind if you agree to a pet deposit, which will be reimbursed after you move out if nothing has been damaged.
Who Pays the Bills?
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Find out whether utility bills are included in your monthly rent and ask who will pay any maintenance costs that arise. The landlord should pay maintenance costs that are necessary to the well being of the property and inhabitants. This should be included in your lease, so if something breaks, you know the landlord will have it fixed.
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Are Hazards Present?
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Don't just ask the landlord about potential hazards; check for them yourself, or have the home inspected. Mold, asbestos and lead paint are major concerns, especially in old homes.
How Safe Is the Neighborhood?
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Look up crime statistics for the neighborhood, and talk to any friends or acquaintances who are familiar with the area. If you have children, safety will especially be a concern. Visit nearby parks and walk around the neighborhood to get a sense of how safe it is for you and your family.
What Is Nearby?
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Likewise, scope out the area to find out whether chemical or power plants are nearby. Find out whether desirable facilities like schools, grocery stores or libraries are close, also. If you'll need to take the bus often, find out how close the nearest bus line is and read the schedule.
Can You Make Modifications?
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If you love the house but want to repaint, ask the landlord if she'll allow you to make modifications, as suggested on the Rent House Site. If her answer is yes, get it in writing so you can't later be faulted for making these changes. If you want to change the house in any other way, such as planting a garden, ask upfront.
What Is the Landlord Like?
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Make sure you feel the landlord is a responsible person who is pleasant to deal with. As the Rent House Site says, you'll want a landlord you can turn to if the house has a problem -- someone who is accessible, quick to respond and polite.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit house image by Sergey Dyadechkin from Fotolia.com
