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Real Estate Tips

The Quick and Easy House Rental Checklist

Posted on Wednesday, June 14, 2017

What do you need to look for in a home? 

You know you want to rent a house, but what should you look for within those four walls? A house is much more than a space surrounded by walls. It is your future home, and by looking closely at the house before you rent, you can ensure that you find a house that is the perfect fit for you and your family.

What Is in a Room? 

When you are looking for a new house, you need to consider how the rooms in the house work for you and your family.
  • How many bedrooms are there in the home?
  • What is the layout of the bedrooms?
  • If the house has more than one floor, where are the bedrooms located? Does this work for your family's needs for privacy and accessibility?
  • If you plan to sublet or share with a roommate, are there private bedrooms or cooking areas? What spaces will you need to share?
  • How flexible are the living spaces? If you are renting a one bedroom and den but you actually need a two bedroom, can you convert that den space? 
  • If you are looking at an open plan apartment, what living spaces fit easily within that plan? Visualize where you would have living, office, and sleeping spaces.
  • Do any of the bedrooms have special features such as a deck? Is this a feature you want?

Are You Able to Work From Home?

Working part-time or full-time from a home office is becoming more and more popular. Is this a lifestyle that you would like to pursue? If so, you will need to make sure that you have a suitable space when you rent a house.
  • Does the home have the physical structures you need to work from home, if you need more than a computer? For example, you may require workshop space.
  • How well does the internet connection work, and is it consistent for videoconferencing if needed?
  • If you need a private office space, is there such a space in the home?

Are you looking for a home with special features, such as a lovely garden? 

What Special Features Does the House Have to Offer? 

Take a look at some of the special features of the home. These features can make your life easier and more pleasant.
  • Is there a working HVAC system?
  • If you live in an area where air-conditioning is not a standard feature, does the home have air conditioning?
  • Does the house have a fireplace or gas insert?
  • Does the house have a pool?
  • If you have a yard, is there a watering system?

How Does The House Work For Play and Entertaining? 

Everyone's leisure time looks different. You need to make sure that your house works for your leisure time. Consider the following as you look for new home:
  • What is the garden like? Does it fit your desired level of maintenance? If you love gardening, you may want a garden that is large and lush and complicated. If you do not like gardening, you might choose a home with the a very small garden space, or a garden space that is managed by your landlord.
  • Do you like entertaining outdoors? If so, look for a patio or deck. Look at the indoor-outdoor access of the home and decide if it is your ideal entertaining space.
  • Look at your kitchen and common areas. Can you imagine yourself hosting friends or relaxing with your family in these spaces?
  • What kind of recreation do you enjoy? If you like to hike, is the house in an area where you can go for walks? Does your apartment building have a pool?

Is the House Safe? 

Your home needs to feel safe and comfortable. Consider what feels safe and comfortable to your family when you decide to rent a home.
  • Look at the neighborhood. Is this a neighborhood where you will enjoy living? Will you feel safe?
  • Is the home in good repair? Will you be going to your landlord for help with home problems?
  • If you are a senior or require fewer stairs, is the home accessible?
  • Are there safety concerns around the home? For example, families with young children may want to avoid older homes that may have lead paint underneath the many layers of paint. Some families enjoy having a house with a pool, but others are worried about the safety issues.
  • Is the house near areas that have a lot of noise, light, or smell pollution?

Is the House In Good Repair? 

You want to rent a house that is well loved, so that your family can easily fall in love with it as well. According to Consumer Affairs, you should check out the following structures and appliances before you decide to rent a home: 
  • Look at the steps and porches to make sure that they are strong.
  • Look at the siding and foundation to make sure that it is not soft.
  • Examine the walls and roof for condensation and leaks.
  • Make sure that lighting in the common areas works well.
  • Watch for mold.
  • Open and close windows to make sure that they are not broken and that they are operating properly.
  • Ensure that all sinks and toilets are working.
  • Try out appliances such as the stove and fridge.
  • Examine the condition of the flooring.
  • Ask about pipe leaks and electrical issues.

Are you looking for a new home? At Open For Homes, we are here to support your search. Check out the blog at Open For Homes for information that will help you in your house hunting.