Renters Tips

I do a decent amount of Rentals and have some tips.

The Rental Market is getting tighter, with Landlords asking for 1st, last and security. If you are planning to move be prepared to pay all three. If your credit is not good, it's pretty much a definite. I took someone out today and they had no credit. They did have $1500 now.

An owner is not going to care if your pet is old, just lays around and is well behaved. If it weighs 100 pounds and is on the restricted breed list, you have a problem.

Even though everyone one wants a nice place to live, some times there has to be a compromise. You are not buying a home and can leave at lease end. You might not get granite counters, stainless steel appliances and so on. But should that be more important then an owner who will take care of the property, good schools, proximity to transportation and all the requirements that should help in your decision.

Be honest with your agent. They are there to assist you. When they ask about your credit don't say it's fine. They have to submit a credit report in most cases. If it is not good, they can focus on properties that will accept you.

Don't wait until the last minute. Most HOA's or Condo Association's use a Property Management Company. The process will take a minimum of a week. They do have up to 30 days. You aren't going to be able to move in tomorrow.

If have a criminal record, you need to disclose this. Any one running a report will find this out. It is better to be honest up front. If you have to wait to be approved and it shows up, you will be looking again.

Craigslist has a multitude of ads posted by Agents in my area. Instead of calling a bunch of them, pick one and let them assist you. They all have access to the same data. One person will work harder for you then you calling 10. Plus when you call an agent and tell them you will be here after your first appointment and before your next, you kind of dampers the enthusiasm. Loyalty plays a part here.

I had one customer recently whose budget was $2000. If a home came on the market for $2300 or $2400, they would want to see it. If it is on the market for one day, the owner is probably not going to accept it. Plus the fact, they might feel insulted. If they wanted $2000, they would probably have listed it for that or somewhere close.

If you are looking to rent, be aware of a shortage of inventory, credit requirements, and money down and to be realistic.