SThrough the different stages of life, what we value more regarding the spaces we live in changes. After all, evaluating the prospect of a place when you are in college is not the same as evaluating your possible future residency when you are in your late 40s. And it will definitely not be the same when you are looking to expand your family and need more room. No matter which stage you’re at, there are several aspects to consider before selecting your place. Not sure what comes first? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of 6 things to consider before renting a flat.

All of us look for comfort in different places: some prefer peaceful neighborhoods, away from the noise and mess of the city. Some others prefer the practicality of living downtown. To them, having everything they need close enough means saving time and money. So probably what comes first is asking yourself what it is that you prefer.
Once you come up with ideas of what you want, we suggest you narrow down your options by considering the following aspects:

1. Location of the space
   Seems pretty obvious, but location is everything. After all, the place where your flat is located can impact your daily life in significant ways. So, before signing a lease, take time to consider some factors to ensure your new living space aligns with your needs and preferences. Regarding location, here are some things you might want to consider:

   • Proximity to work
   • Public transportation
   • Proximity to schools, etc.

2. Budget and affordability

   Another important aspect to consider is your budget. Let’s face it, we often have to narrow alternatives based on a budget. Contemplating a rent budget does not only mean monthly rent but also additional expenses such as utilities, parking fees, maintenance costs, and more.
   Having all these extra costs contemplated will ensure you can comfortably afford the rent without stretching your budget.

3. Amenities

   One more thing to keep in mind is which amenities are essential to you. Do you prioritize features like a gym, swimming pool, school, and on-site laundry facilities? Do you value a pet-friendly environment more?
   Ask yourself about your priorities and make a list of the non-negotiable amenities you have. After that, also list the amenities that you’d like to have but are not necessarily a deal breaker. Having all this information in mind will help you concentrate your efforts on properties that align with what you’re looking for.

   
4. Insurance

   Ask the landlord or property manager if they require renter’s insurance and how much it will cost. This kind of insurance is very useful in the long run, so don’t worry too much if your landlord requires one.
   Why is it important? Well, it covers personal belongings for a variety of situations like a fire or a natural disaster or in case your apartment is burglarized.

5. Lease terms

   It’s always crucial to review the lease terms on your document. If it’s your first time doing so and you are having a hard time trying to interpret things, you can bulk up on frequently used terms within a rental agreement. This way, reading the document will become easier.
   If you don’t understand something, make sure to ask the other party before signing the document. Put special attention to the areas about regulations and restrictions for behavior, the policy on late rent, and what actions can lead to eviction.
   If there is something you don’t agree with, make sure to discuss it with the property manager or landlord. Keep in mind that having a document doesn't mean everything will work that way. You can still negotiate some of the terms and conditions, it’s ok to ask for some changes.

6. Property Condition and Maintenance

   Our final tip involves inspecting the property thoroughly. We suggest you do this before signing the lease to assess the flat’s condition.
   Look for signs of damage such as cracks, leaks, pests, etc. Make sure to let the property manager or landlord know you’ve detected such signs in case they don’t mention them.
   Discuss the repair or maintenance issues that need addressing before moving in.
   In this step, we’d also recommend documenting any existing damages to avoid disputes over the security deposit when you eventually move out.

   Moving to a new flat often implies a lot of aspects. We’ve narrowed them down to the most important ones to guide you. In the end, you will decide which aspects carry more weight. But we hope this article helps you.
   If you’re looking for the property of your dreams, we are here to help you. You can browse through our properties directory or contact us for more information.