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r e n t a l p r o p e r t i e s
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.?
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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 12 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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