As a GOOD Realtor®, it is our job to make sure you are taken care of. Most websites and blogs focus on buying and selling because that is where their money is. We are here for everyone and we understand that renting is just as important as buying and selling because where you and your family live is the world, even if it's only temporary. Most people read over the lease, ask about deposits, know pet policies, etc. Today, we go over 3 things you MUST do when you rent ANY property!
1. Know your landlord like he knows you - Often overlooked is WHO you are renting from. Do they have a good reputation? Are they easily reachable in case of a situation? Do they have other properties, and if so, how did those tenants enjoy the experience? Some of these questions you will need your Realtor® to help you with, some of them you can look into on your own. Check their criminal record as well. I, personally, would not want to rent from someone who has a checkered criminal record!!
2. Check EVERYTHING - I know this seems like common sense but trust me, it is not always. Everyone knows to check the easily identifiable items, such as doors, locks, water, etc. Make sure you check if the toilets flush, electrical outlets(bring a little phone charger or something and plug it in to all of them), cracks in the driveway, check the attic, smoke detectors, make sure the windows all go up and down, and the windows LOCK, check the AC ASAP(especially in Texas), etc. You can never be too thorough, considering you will likely be here for an extended period of time!!
3. Maintenance Requests - This ties in directly with Number 2. Find out how you file these BEFORE you move in. These are important. Who are you calling? What is the response time and what are YOU responsible for? Knowing this information can save you a lot of trouble if your AC goes out in the summer, or if you have a malfunctioning anything!!
In Conclusion....
Buying is stressful, but having rented at least a dozen places in my life, I know renting is too. Most people do not think a Realtor® can/will help them with a rental, but we can and will! Making sure you and your family are in the best possible situation, even if it's only temporary, is a job that we take great pride in!
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