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Searching for a new home is an exciting time, you might be moving for a job or looking to upgrade. Equally, house hunting can be rather stressful, and so you must get organized.

1 . Define your needs

When you’re searching for a rental property the first thing that you need to do is to define your needs. Having a clear idea of what you are looking for makes it much easier to start searching. Are you looking for a new-build apartment? Perhaps you’d prefer an older property with a bit of character? How many bedrooms are you looking for, and what amenities do you need nearby? Considering questions like these will help you to figure out your deal breakers and get off to a great start.

2. Research the area

The area you live in is equally as important as the property that you rent. Before you commit to a rental property, spend time in the neighborhood and do lots of research. Find out about how safe the neighborhood is, and anything else that’s appropriate to your lifestyle. You might like to find out:

• What the local transport links are like/where they are.
• The key amenities in the neighborhood.
• Any planned developments in the area.
• What the local schools are like.
• Any landmarks/historical sites of interest.

3. Inspect the property carefully

When you’re viewing a rental property you’ll want to perform a close inspection. Take your time looking at every room carefully. It’s common to only view a property only once before you make a decision to rent, (so you’ll want to make sure that you don’t miss anything). Look for any signs of damp or mold, ensure that nothing is broken. Assess the paint-work, does the property appear to be well maintained? Making a thorough inspection of the property will help you to make an informed decision.

4. Ask the right questions

You’ll need to ask lots of questions before you commit to a rental property. Here are a few ideas to help you:

• Does the property include any furniture or appliances?
• Can I have pets in the property?
• How long is the rental contract?
• Can I make any adjustments to the property (decor etc)?
• Do you have an emergency maintenance number?
• Which maintenance tasks am I responsible for myself?
• Is there a strong wifi connection?

5. Get your documents prepared

When you’re looking for houses to rent it’s a good idea to get your documents prepared. To rent a property you’ll need to provide copies of your passport and proof of address. You’ll also need proof of employment, bank statements, and a reference from a previous landlord. Gathering all these documents together will help you to save plenty of time.

Moving can be expensive but if you get organized early there are plenty of ways that you can save money moving home. Using these tips you’ll ease the stress of finding a new rental property. Finding a place to rent can take some time, so make sure that you stay patient. Don’t settle for something that’s not quite right, it’s best to take your time.