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Tenants: What to look for in your rental property---->examining the exterior.
When you arrive at your rental property to check it out, first check out the neighborhood. Drive, or better still, walk around a bit and see if the neighborhood feel is consistent with what you are looking for.
Are the amenities you might need convenient? How far is the grocery store? post office? dry cleaner? schools? train or bus stop? highway?
Calculate a route to your (and significant other's) work and be sure it is a commute you can handle without undue stress.
Now walk around the building and see if it is kept up well. Do the grounds look well maintained? Is there trash piled up? Is the exterior paint or siding in good condition? Is there adequate lighting?
Remember to check the parking situation....even if you do not drive, your visitors will need to park.
next....checking out the interior of a rental property.
Tips for Tenants: Evaluating a rental property--making a good impression.
Always greet the landlord first, before beginning your exploration of the rental unit. Here's the opportunity to bring out your best manners and impress the landlord with a firm handshake and a steady gaze. Dress nicely, but not 'over the top'. Don't smoke, have alcohol on your breath, or bring a pet with you. Please try not to bring the kids....they are going to be bored anyway, but if you must, don't let them run around without your close supervision.
Many times the rental property will be rented to tenants during your visit. Remember this is an inconvenience for them (you'll likely be in the same position some day) so respect their private property and try to make your visit as efficient as possible. Don't handle the tenant's CD collection, open their private drawers etc. However, you should try to gain whatever information you can politely glean from the current tenants:
For example: How much are the utility bills? Are there any maintenance problems we should know about? Does the roof leak or the basement flood? Do the apartment elevators work? How do you like the neighborhood?
Tips for Tenants: Evaluating the interior of a rental property
1. For most tenants, the kitchen and bathroom (s) are the most important part of a home, and the ones with the most moving parts. First check to see if the rooms are reasonably clean, without caked on crude or signs of neglect.
2. Are all the appliances that are supposed to be there working and look relatively new?
3. Specifically ask which appliances come with the rental property: Refrigerator? Garbage disposal? Dishwasher? Washer? Dryer? Oven (Gas or Electric) Microwave?
4. Ask whose responsibility it is if an appliance breaks down? Some landlords ask that the tenant pay the first $ 25-100 of any repair bill. Sometimes the property comes with the appliances, but if they break, the must be replaced by the tenant (who them owns the appliance).
5. Ask to see the heater: Gas or Electric? What is the best estimate of monthly bills? Are any or all of the utilities included? Specifically ask who pays for: Gas/Electric--Heat/Air Conditioning Water/Sewer Cable Phone
6. Is the rental property cable ready? Are there installed phone lines?
7. Is there a basement, attic, crawlspace, garage and are these areas relatively clean and accessible? Be sure to ask if the basement is subject to flooding or water problems.
8. Is the rental property air conditioned? Central Air or window units? If the property requires window units, who supplies and installs them? (usually the tenant).
9. Is the property recently painted? Will the landlord paint between tenants?
10. Check the condition of carpeting? Will the landlord clean the rugs between tenants?
11. Take a good look around, and take pictures if permitted, to help you recall specifics, especially if you are looking at several properties. Check closet space and if necessary, measure to see if your furniture will fit.
12. If renting a home, does the property have a lawn or landscaping that needs upkeep? Who is responsible for: Grass cutting? Snow removal? Gutter cleaning? Condominium fees if applicable?
The information on RentalProperties.com is intended for informational purposes and not guaranteed. Please consult with an attorney or your own professional advisor regarding your specific situation.
