So after a long search for apartments to rent online, you’ve narrowed down your search to the place that’s right for you. And now that? What do you have to do before you can move into your new rental apartment? Here’s a checklist of things you need to finish your quest and move into your new kingdom.
Can you afford it?
Before you commit to a rental agreement, you’d better make sure your wallet meets your dreams. Do you have a stable income? How is your credit rating? You want to make sure you don’t push yourself too hard when looking for a new apartment to rent. A luxury suite with a pool and fitness room can be very tempting, but you may have to face the reality that your finances are not yet at that point to comfortably afford the rent.
What you see is what you get?
Take a look around the neighborhood. Visit the building of the property. Talk to people who already live in the area. Is this the place you want to call home? Is the building as nice as the photos online, or better? How close are shops, schools, restaurants, public transport?
Take a good look at the apartment. What condition are the floors and paint in? What about the windows, doors? Are pets allowed and are there any restrictions on decorating your suite?
Be sure to take the time to visit the property and its surroundings. You have to know what you are getting yourself into – this is going to be a long-term commitment!
Bring the correct documentation
Better safe than sorry, right? So it’s best to bring everything you might need to sign the lease right there when you’re looking for an apartment. By the time you’ve made your appointment, maybe someone else has taken the suite of your dreams…
So what to bring? An employment letter, often required on company letterhead, must show your annual salary, name, position, and years of service. It must be signed by your direct supervisor or manager. Free-lancers? You may be required to show your Tax Authorities Assessment Notice for the past two years plus underlying financial statements. These finances may have to have been created by an accountant. The property management company may ask for references, from your current job or owner. Take this contact information and/or letters of reference with you.
And how are we going to pay for that?
You will need to pay a deposit and you must bring your social security number so your credit score can be checked. To make life easier, you may want to consider setting up an electronic funds transfer (EFT) so that your monthly rental fees are automatically transferred from your bank to the property owner.
read the fine print
No matter how eager you are to move in right away, you should take the time to read the rental agreement carefully. Make sure you understand what you are signing and ask questions. This is a legal document! Never sign anything just in escrow. And any conditions that you can negotiate? Get them in writing!
Coming prepared is half the battle. I hope this article helps you make a better decision about your future home, and I wish you the best of luck with your apartment rental application.