Find a Home to Rent. In Simple Steps.

Once you’ve decided on a property, you’ll probably be asked to fill out a rental application. Each person who is renting has to fill out a separate rental application. This helps the landlord determine each person’s credibility as a potential renter. You may have to submit a processing fee, application fee and security deposit along with the rental application. If your application is denied, the security deposit will be returned within a specified time frame, usually one month. The rental application typically asks for your:

• name
• current address
• phone numbers
• email address
• driver’s license number
• previous address
• pets, if applicable
• employment and income information
• emergency contacts
• personal references
• background information, including questions about criminal charges or previous bankruptcies
• vehicle information

Be prepared for each of all of these. Remember this is business, not personal, the rental agent or property manager / owner is trying to protect both rental parties in ensuring the rent payment is affordable for the renter, and that the property with be returned in great condition at the end of the rental.

As the potential renter, it’s also a really good time to assess the efficiency and service level of the property management, if the place is great, but the service lacking you should consider this as part of your decision process.

Read more: Rental Articles on the Homes.com Blog

You’ve decided to rent a property after reviewing your finances, reading valuable rent vs buy articles, and doing some research into where you want to live.

Whether it’s a condo, apartment or house, finding your new rental home doesn’t have to be difficult or confusing.

Everyone’s path to a rental is different, but there are some key steps to researching, finding, refining, and finally signing a lease before you move in.

In this guide, we’ll step you through the process so you’re both informed and empowered on your journey to your rental home.

• • Things to Consider When Renting a Home
  • How to Set a Budget for Your Home Rental
  • How to Decide on the Ideal Location
  • How to Search for a Rental Home
  • What is a Rental Application?
  • How to Rent With Pets
  • How to do a Rental Property Walk-Through
  • Now what? You new Rental!

We’d love to hear how your rental experience went! Let us know by visiting our blog and commenting on our post:

11 Questions First-Time Renters Should Ask

Happy rental hunting!

Finding the perfect apartment or house to rent is a requires a lot of time and research, so we’re here to help make the process a little easier for you! In this ‘how tos’ rental section, we cover all the necessary steps of the renting process with tools, tips and helpful advice so you can discover, select and lease your ideal home.

Choose Which Amenities are Important

It’s understandable to want as many amenities as possible, but it’s important to recognize which ones are essential. If you can compromise on some amenities, such as an outside pool or water view, you may be able to find a home in a better location, or closer to your favorite activities. Don’t get caught up in all the bells and whistles and forget about all the other important factors that go into choosing your perfect rental home.

Read: An Apartment Checklist: What to Look For In Your Next Spot

Get to Know the Neighborhoods

If you’re familiar with the city where you’re looking, you may already have a good sense of its neighborhoods. If you’re browsing from a distance, it makes sense to get familiar with areas where potential rentals are located. Look at crime maps. Read reviews on the local schools. Seek out information in forums, and if you have anyone in your network that might be able to give you the local’s perspective on a particular neighborhood, ask them for input.

Decide What Location is Ideal

Regarding location, what is important to you and your family? Is the school district the top priority? Do you prefer the bustle of city life, or do you want a more laid-back country lifestyle? Use the search feature on Homes.com to easily search rentals by zip code, and to find listings in nearby locations to ensure you don’t miss your dream home in the locations that best fit your personality.

Read: Finding Your Ideal Rental Location

Know the Local Market

For many families, renting a home may be the best solution to provide their children with stability. For this reason, these types of renters will often try to negotiate multi-year leases. These families don’t want to have to worry about taking their kids out of school or away from the friends they’ve made. They want to enjoy living in their communities without worry that they might have to look for another place to live in a few months’ time.

In such cases, a landlord might offer a 12-month lease upfront with the potential for a multi-year lease upon renewal. This gives them a year to learn more about their renter’s habits and personality before they commit to offering a longer lease.

Moving can be an expensive process, and preparation is the key to a successful move. Focus on your budget, turn to your friends and family for help, and be realistic about your expectations to make this move enjoyable.

When searching for a new home to rent, it is natural to start looking based on price. The initial price might not look like a stretch, but down the road, you might realize you’re struggling to keep up. Keep your new rental home search around a budget you can afford. Tip: having a roommate will reduce the cost of rent. It will not only make it less expensive, but it also gives you more freedom in selecting your next rental. Before you make a decision regarding a roommate, make sure you are prepared to live with a roommate, as it is not for everyone.

Another important thing to remember is what day of the month your rent is due. This will help calculate how much money is going in and out, and during what time of the month (it also helps avoid late fees). Consider online budget tracking apps like Mint.com, Budget Tracker, and Duck Software’s Budget Tracker. All three apps are free and can help you manage your expenses. Check with the apartment community or property owner about paying rent online to avoid missing a payment.

Make sure to ask the property manager or owner which, if any, utilities are included. Renters commonly pay for water, electric, and gas. Trash removal is usually included in rent price unless stated otherwise by the property owner or apartment community, but it always good to double check. It is common for leasing staff or the property owner to provide you with companies that you should use for utilities. Call those utility companies and give them the address you’re considering renting, then ask for an estimate. This will help you see how much utilities could cost you each month living in that particular rental property and save you from panic in those first few months.

A great website and app resource to see all your balances and transactions together: Mint.com

An effective money management tool designed to keep track of all your transactions and bank accounts: Budget Tracker

Check Your Credit

Once you understand how much you can afford it’s a great idea to check your credit rating, as it’s one of the first things your new landlord or property owner is likely to do once you’ve applied. The government mandates that the primary credit companies provide a free credit report to consumers once a year. The easiest way to get that report is using the federally-recommended Annual Credit Report site.

If you have good to great credit, you generally have nothing to worry about. If your credit has any issues, you may need to find a co-signer on any lease, but don’t assume a relatively clean credit sheet with a few blemishes is a concern. Having a steady income, good references and a pleasant and polite disposition can, in many cases, make up for a less than a stellar credit report. In any case, be ready to explain the reasons behind your credit score to potential landlords if it’s low, and what you’re doing to improve and fix it.

 

Where Do You Want to Live?

First, understand where you want to live, then use internet listing websites, such Homes.com, to help make your search process easier. Looking online can be beneficial because it is quick and easy, plus it shows more property listings and details including some with online video tours to help you see the apartment ahead of time. Also, try to get an estimate of commute time to work and walking distances to restaurants and entertainment.

Read location-specific articles to find out more about each location, fitness options, coffee shop selections and restaurant choices. Tap into your network of family and friends for apartment community or rental home recommendations. Ask about positive and negative experiences so you can be fully informed. Asking for advice from knowledgeable friends and other renters will only help you make better choices on your hunt for the perfect home.

Rental properties vary considerably, and costs of renting apartments, condos and houses can also span 1,000s of dollars. Doing your research upfront, with an eye to affordability is key to not only narrowing down your choices but also enjoying your new home.

How to be Realistic About Affordability

Be informed – issues may happen while renting an apartment or home, such as maintenance problems, noisy neighbors, etc.

Problems are to be expected and easily adjusted; you just need to be prepared. Create a checklist of what you do and don’t want in a rental, and take that checklist with you on your tours. The more research you’ve done, the more prepared you will be for this process.

• Moving is expensive; therefore, start off right by finding an apartment or rental home that you can see yourself living in for years to come.
• Pay attention to details when taking a tour of the apartment or rental home. Keep in mind that moving involves moving furniture, and not all furniture will fit through every doorway.
• Consider factors such as distance to work, friends, and family. The Homes.com Rental App allows you to do this right from your mobile phone. Download the app!
• Plan ahead and keep in mind whether or not you might need space down the road for a roommate, or could monetize your home through crowdsourcing services.
• Most importantly… know your budget and costs involved. Finding the home you love then finding you can’t afford it is the worst scenario in the home rental process.

Visit Areas & Neighborhoods

If you’re moving near to where you currently live, or you’re moving for work or other opportunities, you may want to invest time, money and energy into visiting the general area where you’re relocating and scout out different neighborhoods for alignment with work, play and local services.

Your online research may give you some great insights into affordable areas, but walking around those locations may bring either a reality check or a relief that the online information is incorrect or a perfect description.

 

What to Do, Look For, And Some Questions to Ask

Take Lots of Photos

If the entire family isn’t able to tour all of the potential homes, make sure to many pictures. It’s important to let everyone get a feel for his or her next space. Additionally, it will give you a way to organize and accurately review all of the homes you tour.

Can You Sublet Spare Rooms?

These days, many homeowners and renters cut costs by renting spare rooms out to users of Airbnb and other economy lodging-share sites. You might also consider having a roommate to help make ends meet. Before you bank on rental income as a source of revenue, be certain that subletting won’t violate your lease, or you and your lodgers could end up looking for a new place to call home.

What Does Rent Cover?

Some landlords include things like garbage and utilities in the monthly rent payment, while others expect you to pay for those things yourself. Some apartment complexes include access to shared spaces such as gyms, swimming pools, and common social areas, while others consider those to be paid extras. Make sure you know what your rent includes, so you can budget accordingly for extra expenses.

Read: 5 Rental Search Hacks That Will Help You Find Your Dream Rental

Is Parking Included With Your Rental?

If you’re renting a single-family home, then you probably won’t have to worry about parking. However, many apartment complexes charge extra for parking, and some (especially in denser urban areas) don’t offer parking at all. That might not be a worry if you bike everywhere or prefer to take public transit, but if your lifestyle is dependent on access to a car, it can be a major inconvenience.

How Much Will It Cost to Move In? Or Move Out?

If this is the first time you’ve searched for a home to rent, you probably know that moving in can be a bit more expensive than one month’s rent. Some landlords and property management companies charge two month’s rent up front, plus a security and cleaning deposit. If your credit is less than ideal, you may also be asked for a bigger security deposit. The bottom line: before you commit to renting a new home, know how much money you’ll need to close the deal.

 What About Water Pressure, Clarity, and Temperature?

Does the water run clean or is it rust colored when you first turn it on? Does the shower have enough water pressure to rinse shampoo out of your hair? Does the unit have a dedicated hot water heater or will you race to beat your neighbors for a hot shower in the morning?

Do the Doors and Windows Function?

As with the cabinets and drawers, are all doors and windows in good working order? There’s nothing worse than renting a place when it’s chilly outside only to find that, come warmer weather, the windows are painted shut.

What are the Rules Regarding Exterior Decorating and Yard Maintenance?

Are you allowed to paint the interior? Can you decorate exterior spaces such as balconies or patios in the manner of your choosing? Will you be responsible for any or all of the yard maintenance as a tenant?

What are the Policies for Pets And Guests?

What are the pet and guest policies for the building or unit? Are you allowed to have guests for longer than one or two nights? What if your out of town guests bring their pets along? What if you decide you want to get a pet in the future?

Read: How to Rent With Pets

Check Your Landlord’s Reviews & Reputation!

If you’ve never had the misfortune of renting from an unscrupulous landlord, take a moment to appreciate your good fortune. Here’s a tip from the rest of us: check up on your landlord before you sign anything. If a property management company manages your new home, check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read their online reviews. If you’re renting from a private individual, run a criminal background check, talk to other tenants, and make sure the property isn’t due for foreclosure.

Pet Questions!

The Basics of Rental Agreements

It may seem basic, but make sure you read what you are signing. Before you sign any papers, request a copy of rules, regulations, terms and conditions, etc. Read through those documents thoroughly so that you know exactly what you will be signing and reduce any risk of unwanted surprises.

Read the Contract, Then Read It Again!

Of all the pieces of advice in this article, this one might be the most important: read your contract. Twice. Make absolutely sure you know exactly what your lease entails. Being clear on the terms of your lease will help you avoid getting in trouble, and you’ll be able to hold your landlord accountable for any missteps that might occur on their end.

Read: What do you need for a rental application?

Here are some of the key things to focus on:

• How much is the application fee, if any?
• Is the application fee refundable if you do not qualify to rent?
• What is the beginning lease date and expiration date?
• What is the rental price and how much is the security deposit?
• Is the security deposit refundable when you move out?
• Who is responsible for paying for the utilities, you or your property owner?
• For what reason(s) may the apartment community or property owner terminate your lease?
• Are there penalties for moving out too early?
• Can other people move in with you after you sign the lease and move in?
• Can you sublease?
• Do you need to have renter’s insurance? (If yes, it will increase your cost).
• What is the guest/visitor policy?
• Are you responsible for any maintenance repairs?

What Questions to Ask for Your Rental Agreement?

Here are some important questions to consider when signing a lease – make sure to have a copy of the lease for your records. And remember that what a property owner may tell you is not official or binding unless it is in writing.

• What is the method of payment?
• What is the deposit amount and is it refundable?
• Is there a cancellation policy? What is it?
• What is the move out date and time?
• What is the number of occupants allowed?
• Do all occupants over 18 years of age need to sign the lease?
• Pet fees and restrictions – are there any?
• Any specific responsibilities as a resident? This includes any damage fees.
• How many days in advance do you need to provide a notice to vacate?

Read: 8 Ways to Make Sure You See Your Security Deposit Again

Year-to-Year or Multi-Year Lease

Apartments almost always carry either month-to-month leases or annual lease agreements. This might seem like a short duration, but it is done for a reason. At the end of the lease period, the landlord has the ability to renew the lease or not to renew it. They can also decide to raise or to lower the rent based on the market trends.

In most cases, homes for rent follow this same standard. The majority of home rental agreements are based on one-year agreement terms. Landlords, whether they are renting out homes or apartments, simply don’t want to find themselves tied down with nightmare tenants for any longer than they have to. So they will usually offer year-to-year leases in an effort to keep their risks as low as possible.

Landlords rarely entertain the thought of extending their rental agreement beyond a 12-month term, but it’s not impossible.

What to Expect in a House Lease

Lease agreements for houses are almost identical to those drafted up for apartments, but depending on the landlord, the inclusions can be minimal or extensive. That said, along with the rent amount and duration, most house rental agreements tend to include the following:

• General conduct requirements
• Parking restrictions
• Pet allowances
• Proper use of outdoor (or common) space
• Property alteration restrictions
• Garbage removal
• Maintenance requirements
• Utility responsibilities
• Guest restrictions
• Move out conditions and expectations

It’s important to understand that every lease is different, just as each landlord and renter is different. You never really know what the landlord is going to be willing to do for you until you ask. Depending on your negotiation skills, you may be able to secure a multi-year lease that benefits both your family and your landlord, so it’s always worth asking about.

Whether you want to rent out your current home or rent a new home, you’ll need to read and understand every part of the contract prior to signing. A rental agreement is a contract that you’ll keep handy for occasional review. Understanding your rights as either the tenant or the landlord is important; it will ensure that you don’t find yourself in breach of contract. Here are just a few of the items on a rental contract that will require your consideration.

First and foremost, you need to appreciate all of the financial implications of your rental agreement. The rental agreement should state clearly the monthly rate and security deposit. Look closely at what constitutes withholding a security deposit. There should be defined parameters for when the deposit will be returned. It should state what the late charge will be and what length of time qualifies as “late.”

The landlord or the tenant can pay utilities. Either way, the contract should state who carries the responsibility for utility payments. Typically the landlord carries property insurance, and it may be required that the tenant obtain a renter’s policy.

Occupancy restrictions are also often found in a rental agreement. The contract should clearly state the number of occupants, which includes adults, children, and pets. (Speaking of pets, review the contract to determine whether there is an additional charge for them). Also, there can be language within the agreement that defines when a “visitor,” becomes a “tenant.” It’s the tenant’s responsibility to notify the landlord of any changes to the original terms.

For those do-it-yourself-ers that like to paint every room of the house, there’s often a paragraph in the contract addressing alterations to the property. The landlord may allow some enhancements to the property, with written approval. Keep in mind that if the landlord allows you to make changes during your tenancy, he may also want the property restored upon termination. For some agreements, all alterations are forbidden.

Be aware that the landlord can investigate potential breaches of your contract by allowing himself the right of entry and inspection. The rental contract should contain language stipulating how much notice the landlord must give the tenant before coming over (for non-emergency situations). Often times, landlords will change the air filters, check the smoke alarm batteries, have the carpets cleaned, or perform other preventative maintenance while inspecting the property. Whether you’re the landlord or the tenant, it’s important not to violate or be violated by improper entry/inspections.

Lastly, consider what constitutes “termination” of the lease agreement. Any grounds for an early termination should be articulated clearly. Upon expiration of the initial lease agreement, there should be language to describe what happens next. It’s possible for that the landlord will automatically renew the initial terms. It’s also possible for lease to terminate immediately. Some landlords require a renewal commitment two to three months prior to expiration. All parties will want to know those timelines on the front end. The rental agreement should describe the landlord’s expectation for the condition of the property after you vacate the premises.

Every part of the rental agreement is vitally important to both the landlord and the tenant. Carefully read through each paragraph without skipping over anything. Before you sign, during the lease, and even after pay special attention to the conditions described above. The most common lawsuits in civil court revolve around breaches of contracts. Read through your lease agreement cautiously, ask the experts clarifying questions, and keep the signed document in a safe place to review periodically.

Read: Understanding Rental and Lease Agreements

How to Finalize Your Rental

Always do a walk-through before signing a lease to your new place. Once you sign the lease, do another walk-through. Review the light fixtures, plumbing, and everything in between. Note any dings, stains, or broken items. This is a crucial part of the move-in process as you do not want to be held responsible for those damages if you decide to move out. This also prevents any surprises on move-in day.

Once you’re settled in, be proactive in getting to know your neighbors and community.

Set Up!

Call the local electric, heating, and water company a few days in advance to set up these utilities. If you don’t know, ask your property owner or leasing agent to assist you with the contact information for these companies. Ask what the typical monthly cost for the area is based on square footage and occupants. See if the companies provide plans to balance out costs during months when it is very hot or very cold. This will help reduce high costs during peak months.

Power Up!

If your property owner or apartment community does not have a preference in internet and cable providers, contact local providers for quotes that fit your budget. Be ready to purchase or rent any equipment needed, such as a router, if the internet provider does not supply such accessories.

Clean Up!

Consider a deep clean before unpacking your new home. Most property owners and apartment communities will do a clean-up before you move in but it can’t hurt to be thorough. The place is completely empty – therefore, now would be an ideal time.

Before running to the store to buy things for your new home, unpack your boxes completely. This will allow you to know exactly what you do and do not have, making the assembly of your shopping list a little easier.

The Walk-Through

This may seem repetitive, but a walk-through of your rental before, during and at the lease signing is a key component of ensuring the rental is right and ready for you.

Inspect the light fixtures, plumbing, and everything in between. Document and photograph any dings, stains, or any broken items so you won’t be held responsible for these damages if you decide to move out. This also prevents any surprises on move-in day and will come in handy when help to get your deposit back.

Set Up Your New Rental

Getting everything connected can seem like a chore, but it’s not difficult!

Call the local electric, heating, and water company a few days in advance to set up these utilities. If you don’t know, ask your property owner or leasing office staff to assist you with the contact information for these companies. Ask what the typical monthly cost for the area is based on square footage and occupants. See if the companies provide plans to balance out costs during months when it is very hot or very cold. This will help reduce high costs during peak months.

Power Up Your Rental

If your property owner or apartment community does not have a preference in internet and cable providers, then contact local providers for quotes that fit your budget. Be ready to purchase or rent any equipment needed, such as a router, if the internet provider does not supply such accessories.

Clean Everything in Your Rental

Consider a deep clean before unpacking your new home. Most property owners and apartment communities will do a thorough cleaning before you move in, but it can’t hurt to do the same for peace of mind. The place is completely empty, so it is the ideal time.

Before buying things for your new home, unpack your boxes completely. This will allow you to know exactly what you do and do not have, making the assembly of your shopping list a little easier.

Do another walk-through to ensure you didn’t miss anything. After your first day, and before you’re settled in, document everything again to make sure movers didn’t damage anything. You’ll need the evidence to assign responsibility.

Settling Into Your Community

Your community becomes a part of your home when you move into your new place, so it is important to get to know your surroundings.

Take a walk around the neighborhood to get acquainted with the area. Check out nearby restaurants and shops as well as parks and playgrounds, especially if you have children. Drive around the neighborhood so that you can familiarize yourself with local stores, schools, pharmacies, and libraries. Visit local gyms or recreational facilities for various classes and check for upcoming community festivals and events you might be interested in.

Consider joining a local organization, such as a dog park (if you own a dog) or a local book club. If you want more information on your neighborhood and community events, ask your leasing office staff or property owner. Part of moving into your new home involves discovering and building a life in your new area!

Ask your apartment community or the property owner if they have special discounts negotiated with nearby locations. This is a common perk of renting.

Getting to Know Your Neighbors

Befriending neighbors can be beneficial, especially in situations where you may need a helping hand. It can also help you build some great friendships and forge a network of people who look out for each other.