Things Every Renter Should Know
Moving out on your own is a big deal no matter your age so it’s a good idea to be as well prepared as you can be. You will, of course, learn a lot about yourself, your living habits, what you like and don’t like over time, but there are some overall good tips to keep in mind when you are moving out and renting your first place. It’s also not a bad idea to refresh your mind on some things even if you are not renting for the first time but maybe changing locations after you’ve been in one spot for a while.
Most people know that when they are seeking out a place to rent, there will be some form or credit check. This usually comes with some sort of processing free and an inquiry to your credit. If you are seeking out a place for the first time, you may not have any credit or you may not have the best credit, don’t let that stop you from finding a place you want to live.
The main thing you don’t want to do is apply to a bunch of places all at once. First, this will add up in fees, and second it can hurt your credit even more to have too many inquiries at the same time. Do your research and narrow down your options to as few as possible before applying, and don’t be afraid to check out rentals from an individual owner versus a property management company as they will have more freedom with their options and can speak with you personally about your financial situation.
Another thing you should know as a first time renter or someone who has lived in a variety of places is your rights. Knowing your rights as a renter is important for many reasons, but it’s even more crucial as renting prices surge and cities become more impacted. Some landlords will take advantage of these conditions, especially for those renting for the first time, and gauge for them things like maintenance issues they should be handling. If you’re ever unsure about the way your landlord is handling an issue, review your tenant’s rights of your state.
Something that you may not think about if you are planning to move is timing. You may be more focused on getting out of the house or finding a better place than you currently live, to consider how much the timing can affect your move. Planning to move during the spring or summer typically means there are more options available but it also brings on more competition. Moving during the winter, typically means a more difficult move and fewer options, but since less people are moving, you have the upper hand when it comes to pricing. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on properties that are available, even if you are not thinking about moving at that exact time, so you can be as knowledgeable as possible for when that day comes and you decide to find a new place.
Ready to Move?
Taking the first step as a renter comes with a lot of responsibility but it also comes with freedom and lots of other good things. Making sure you find the right place is just as important as making sure your belongings are safe and sound, and the best way to do that is with renters insurance from Willoughby Insurance!