Looking for a place to rent for the first time can be a struggle when you don’t know what to look for or how to exactly go about the process. That’s why I’ll share some top tips for renting for the first time.
- Research the area you want to live in and make sure to visit. You’ll want to check a few things such as if you feel safe, how the commute to work would be, or if it is too far away from your child’s school. Searching for properties on the internet is great, however, using a letting agency to help you can really make finding a place to rent easier. Search online for Stroud Estate Agents if you’re looking to live in the Gloucestershire area. I recommend contacting local estate agents, TG Residential.
- Calculate your budget. This is incredibly important in order to do correctly, so you don’t commit to paying more than you can realistically afford. If you have a tight budget, consider only looking at furnished properties and don’t forget to count in the utility bills and council tax.
- During your viewing of the property, check that there is no black mould, and see if there is ventilation. In my experience, this can become a serious issue if not taken seriously from the beginning as it can lead to serious health problems.
- Finally, it may sound obvious, but make sure that there is heating, as you’d be surprised by how many landlords get away with not providing heating or hot water to their tenants. A tell-tale sign that there isn’t, is if there are electric heaters.