| 1. |
Choosing a home to rent is an excercise in values clarification, much like finding a job or buyng a car. There are always tradeoffs to be made as to what is more important. Make a written list to help yourself get clarity with regard to your personal priorities. |
| 2. |
Start your search by choosing a neighborhood. Drive around, stop into the local shopping center and see if the neighborhood feels like a comfortable place to call home. |
| 3. |
Become familiar with current market values so you can spot a reasonable deal. |
| 4. |
Check the county tax records to make sure that the party you are renting from is the actual owner and that the home is not in the process of foreclosure. If the rent is below fair market value and the owner does not care about your credit, be careful . . . it might be a scam.
Learn more by reading "Renters in Foreclosure: What are their rights?" |
| 5. |
When you apply for a rental, fill out the application completely and provide requested information promptly. Increase your chances of getting the place you want by impressing your prospective new landlord with your responsible attention to detail and promptness. You'd be surprised at how many applicants fail to do this.
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| 6. |
Use the internet to search for your new home. click here now to view our available rentals |
| 7. |
If there is more to your story than can be told on a standard application, consider volunteering additional information by using a rental resume. click here now for more info
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| 8. |
If you have pets, consider preparing a pet resume. click here now for more info
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| 9. |
Investigate the benefits of renters insurance. It is very affordable.
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| 10. |
Take the time to read your lease agreement carefully and question any area that you do not fully understand. An experienced agent can be a big help in this area. |
| 11. |
Complete a thorough written inspection report on the home and photograph any item important enough to mention on the report. |
| 12. |
Work with a tenant placement agency to help you through the process. Since rental agents are compensated by the property owner, there is no cost to you. |
