4 things You Need To Know First Before Renting

The rental market continues to be a growing segment of the real estate industry in Australia, and in most areas, competition for good properties in desirable locations is fierce. Some renters are attending multiple inspections and lodging several applications a week without being successful at the first few attempts. This causes frustration and some people take whatever they can get without the property meeting their basic needs.

Take an Organised Approach to Finding a Rental

It does not have to be this way if you take an organised approach. Seeking the answers to important questions is a great way of getting started before you even think about inspections and filling out application forms. Knowing where you stand in relation to any tenancy may help you stand out from the other applicants.

What Does Wear and Tear Really Mean?

For example, what is legally considered reasonable wear and tear in a rental property? An owner who is reluctant to pay for repairs will often blame the tenant and refuse to pay. When the tenant knows that reasonable wear and tear means “the reasonable use of the house by the tenant and the ordinary operation of natural forces” and that this definition is usually enforced by the court system, the tenant has a bargaining point.

I’ve Changed My Mind About Living Alone

What if you have taken a lease as the sole occupier but decide later that you want to invite a housemate to share expenses? Can you do this without letting the owner know? No, but you can make a written request to the owner through your property manager to do so, but you must provide the personal details of this occupant in case of an emergency.

These are just two of the questions we are often asked as property managers at Bunbury Real Estate. These types of issues arise because life is fluid and personal circumstances change. When we have excellent tenants with a reasonable request, we do our best to accommodate them after consultation with our owners.

Do I Sign the Tenancy Agreement First Then Ask for Changes?

How do you handle a situation where you have inspected a rental property that does not have window locks but meets all your other needs? Do you sign the tenancy agreement hoping to get contents insurance, or that the owner will install window locks after you have moved in? Really, you should review the security features and check they are suitable in every way before you sign anything.

These are just three of the typical scenarios you can find yourself in if you do not take the time to do your research. Make a list of the things that could possibly happen in your circumstances, get the answers first and then go looking for your perfect rental.