|
Location |
Your choices may be limited
where rentals are in great demand but don't neglect to consider such
factors as distance from your work place, traffic condition of your
commute, safety, proximity to school or other places you go to regularly,
suitability of the unit and location for your lifestyle, amenities, and
what monthly expenses are included in the rent. (Having to drive a greater
distance may cost you more in gas, wear & tear on your car & time than the
rent you save.) |
|
Apt./house hunting |
Go through ads
(newspaper, other publications & the internet) to get a feel for the
general rental rates of the area. If you're new to an area or planning to
move to an unfamiliar area, use websites such as Mapquest & Google Earth
to get acquainted with the geography and makeup of the various
neighborhoods. Local maps are generally available through local Chamber of
Commerce and rental offices. Don't just shop by price. Finally, drive
around the neighborhood you like and look for "For Rent" signs. Many
landlords & rental agencies do not advertise beyond posting a sign on the
premise. If relevant, check out
www.Meganslaw.ca.gov
for registered sex offenders in the area. |
|
Application |
Three things most landlords
value highly are: good referrals from your most recent landlords (last 3
years), job stability and sufficient income for rent (20-30% of your gross
income), good credit history (FICO score). It's a good bet that whatever
you put down on your application will be verified, so be truthful. If you
are weak in any of those areas, ask a close relative (who is financially
sound) to be your guarantor. In some circumstances, governmental agencies
may be available to assist you. |
|
Credit report |
Often, landlords will run a
credit check on applicants. If you have too many credit inquiries
(as when applying to multiple landlords), your FICO score may be effected
negatively. So protect yourself by bringing in a recent report. Self
inquiries do not effect your credit score and are available through many
websites. Many landlords will accept the report you provide, especially
when it is recent and consistent with your overall profile. |
|
Stay in touch |
Most landlords appreciate
good communication and prompt report of any problem. Send a nice note to
your landlord occasionally and keep in touch. If you should run into
financial difficulty occasionally, landlords can be more sympathetic
toward good tenants. Any plumbing or similar problem should be reported
promptly. Don't wait till Friday at 4 pm to report a clogged sink when
it's been giving you trouble for the past couple of weeks. |
|
Pets |
Most rentals do not accept
pets (service animals excluded) and those that do usually will charge a
little more and require additional deposit Pets are wonderful for
companionship but increase wear and tear on carpet, window screens, lawns,
etc. Most pets do not do well in apartments and condos, which happen to be
the most economical dwellings for rent, both for tenants and landlords. |
|
Monthly vs. lease |
Both arrangements can be
argued for and against. In the end, favor the one that fits your
particular need if you have a choice. The best protection a tenant has
against rent increases or termination is the quality of your tenancy. If
you are a good tenant, most landlords will be reluctant to lose you. |
