Tips for finding a property to rent

It is estimated that around 40% of the population now live in private rented accommodation. This is in stark contrast to a couple of decades ago, when most people were owner occupiers. Unfortunately times have changed and the younger generation can’t afford to get on to the housing ladder, thanks to sky high deposits and rising property prices. So if you, like millions of others, can’t afford to buy a home, here are some tips for finding the right property to rent.

Choose an Area

You will find properties to rent in virtually all areas of the UK, but not all of them will be right for you or even affordable. Often you will be restricted to certain areas because of where you work or family ties, but if this isn’t an issue, do some research to check where the amenities are and if there are any no-go areas to avoid. Don’t forget that rent prices will often reflect the area, so if your budget is low, you may have to consider less attractive properties.

Letting Agents

Letting agents are a useful first port of call if you don’t know the area or you have specific requirements. Talk to a few to see what prices are like and what type of properties are available. And if you are after a particular type of property or you want to live in a specific area, ask them to give you a call if something suitable comes on the market.

Online Property Websites

Online property websites are useful, too. You can check out the interior of any potential properties and find out more about the local area before you call up to arrange a viewing. You may also be tempted to look on websites such as Gumtree, but be careful not to fall victim to property scams: bogus landlords have been known to show off prospective properties, ask for a large cash deposit, and then disappear with the money.

Ask the Right Questions

Once you have seen a property you like, make sure you know exactly how much the rent and deposit are, what bills are included, what the running costs are, and whether there are any administration fees payable (if you are using a letting agent).

Know Your Budget

It is sensible to work out your budget in advance and save up enough for a deposit. Once you know exactly how much you can afford to spend on the rent every month, you can start looking for a suitable property. It might be tempting to go for something outside of your price range, but do you really want to be living on a diet of baked beans just to be able to afford a nicer home?

Tenancy Agreements

Never sign a tenancy agreement before reading it through thoroughly. A tenancy agreement is a legally binding document and if you break the terms of the tenancy, you will be liable for any costs incurred. And if you don’t understand any of it, ask a trusted friend or relative for help.

Remember, your landlord has many responsibilities, including providing a property inventory from hertsinventories.co.uk, but as a tenant, so do you, and if you don’t uphold yours, you could be evicted.