When looking to rent a home, what is the amount of time you can look before hand?

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May 07, 2014 Views1,735 Answer a Question

My family is looking to move from out of state to the Houston area in the last month of July. I will be coming out to check out rental properties and sign a lease before that. I was wondering if mid June was an okay time to do this. I would hate to come out and be told that it was too early, but I really need to get a property finalized. And would a realtor be able to help with scheduling homes that the owners would be open to this timeframe? I have talked with a couple and felt dismissed cause I am "just a renter"..Thx for any advice!!

Addtional Details:
  • I meant last week of July will be our move date - May 07, 2014
About 10 years ago
Hi Jennifer. The answer to that question can be quite variable and depends on the individual landlord. If the property is vacant at the time you are looking, they might be a little less likely to wait that long. However, if the property is currently occupied and maybe the current tenant is moving out at the end of the month, they would likely consider this. The third scenario is that the house is vacant, but perhaps sitting on the market for some time and the owner is eager to get a tenant. That would work in your favor as well.

It's our job as Realtors do narrow down your search criteria, do our homework with the landlords and present you with several options to look at.

I'd love to help you guys out.

Chris Prince
832-993-2796
cprince@marthaturner.com
About 10 years ago
Most people begin their search with "Google" and they research neighborhoods, schools, lifestyle and recreational activities. Then they consult with a Realtor for a more targeted search. When you go out to tour homes that process should be fairly simple and quick this includes lease paperwork, processing, and signing of the lease you can find more information at www.therealnelletatum.com there is even a link to download the forms to get started as well as a renters rights pamphlet so that you can become familiar with local tenant/landlord rights in Texas! Welcome!!!
#1 Awarded – Best Answer
About 10 years ago
Hi Jennifer,

Welcome to Houston! It is such a fantastic city and truly a melting pot so to speak of individuals from all over the state, country and world.

Regardless of your family's situation renting is a wonderful option when first moving into a new area in order to get a feel for where you'll want to be long term and if long term is even an option.

Mid June is a great time to secure a lease for the end of July. You will want to connect with a realtor ahead of time in order to discuss what you are looking for in a property(price, square footage, beds, bath) as well as what you are looking for in an area (location to work, airport, major road, shopping, family, school, etc.). Your realtor will be able to take this information and formulate it into a search for you. It's a good idea to get started on this aspect now to get a feel for the properties available in different areas you are considering.

In thinking ahead, in order to maximize your time in Houston be prepared that when submitting an application you will need: an application for anyone over the age of 18 and application fee ($35-75 each), at least 2 pay stubs to verify income, driver's license, and idea of your credit score. The landlord will take all these things into consideration when reviewing the application. Many landlord specify income 3X the rent. It would also be a good idea to have your realtor go ahead and send over the TX Residential Lease Application so that you can fill it out entirely to be ahead of the game.

I am actually working with 3 families who are relocating to Houston from across the country, all of which are getting a feel for the area before committing to a purchase. They each had one day they were in the area and we found a place, executed the leases electronically, and arranged the mailing of certified funds for deposits and rent.

It should be as stress free as possible for you since relocating is a production in itself. Leave it to your realtor to facilitate everything.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like assistance in the process.

Darby Grimmett
Keller Williams Realty
darby@darbygrimmett.com
936-827-9217
About 10 years ago
Hi Jennifer,

Yes, mid-June would be a good time to come to view homes if you are planning to move near the end of July. I would not advise you come any earlier than that time frame. Depending on where in the city or surrounding areas you are considering I may be able to help. If you contact me directly we can discuss your options. (281) 788-0495 or Dori@DoriLacamu.com

Welcome to Houston!

Thank you,
Dori Lacamu, ABR, CNE, SMP
Broker Associate
Keller Williams Metropolitan
(281)788-0495
Dori@DoriLacamu.com
www.DoriLacamu.com
Disclaimer: Answers provided are just opinions and should not be accepted as advice.
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