Tips for Renting

Every year, millions of Americans go through the process of moving and finding a new place to live. It can be a frustrating experience and leave you living somewhere you wouldn’t wish upon your worst enemies. But by doing your homework and putting some effort into your apartment search, finding the right place at the right price is a real possibility. Here are some helpful tips for long-time renters and their landlords:

Tips for Renting

When possible, try putting off your apartment search until you’re in the off-season for renting. Generally, most leasing occurs in spring and summer at the beginning and end of the month. By conducting your search in fall and winter during the middle of the month, you may be able to take advantage of better terms and incentives.
Often times, if you’re moving into an apartment or home that is over ten years old, the landlord will offer to repair or touch up any problems in it. If these issues aren’t a big deal to you or don’t pose a health threat, then try offering to fix them yourself in exchange for a lower rent.
Many of the apartments in bigger cities are professionally owned and managed, which could be a good or a bad thing. They often screen their applicants for higher salary tenants and have more expensive lease terms than a building that is independently owned. However, professionally managed buildings can sometimes be more on top of repairs and maintenance than those that are privately owned.
If you find an apartment or home that you really like and plan on living there for several years, why not sign a longer lease term from the get-go? Rather than going with the typical 12 month lease, ask if you can sign for 24 months. Many owners are willing to lower your rent for signing a longer lease.
Ask your friends and family for help in your search, especially if they live somewhere you’re interested in. Your friends may be able to find out about openings before they’re advertised and they can put in the good word for you.
When you get near the end of your lease, about 60 days out, consider asking your landlord to renew now rather than waiting. It gives you time to see if they plan a massive rent hike and they may be willing to quickly renew you without charging more.