What should you pay attention to when looking for a rental property? Perhaps you already have a home in mind or a viewing is already planned, but you are not sure what to look out for. It is important to always look at the rental property with a critical eye and to weigh up the pros and cons. This will prevent you from regretting it later.
If you want to view a rental property, you can schedule a viewing. During a viewing you can view the house. You are not committed to anything and do not have to rent the house right away. A viewing is without obligation and is the ideal time for you to compare the pros and cons of a home. Take the time during a viewing to take everything in and go well prepared.
Requirements for the home
First of all, it is good to put together a package of wishes. This means that you put on paper what wishes / requirements you have for a home. Think not only of the house, but also of the environment and the location. It may be difficult to find a house that completely fits in with your picture, but by taking a critical look at the house and your package of requirements, you can make a good decision.
Questionnaire
Have you planned a viewing? Then prepare a questionnaire in advance with questions that you can ask the current resident or real estate agent. By drawing up a list in advance, you avoid forgetting to ask important questions. In your enthusiasm you often forget this. For example, ask about the neighbors, equipment in the house, but also about parking in the area. Another important element is how the rental price is structured and whether there are any additional costs.
Adjustments to the home
In addition, it is also good to ask if you can make changes to the house yourself. Maybe you would like to do a small renovation. During the viewing you can inquire about what is and what is not allowed. You can also ask what requirements are set for renting the house. For example, there is often an income requirement. The estate agent can tell you more about this.
A tour around the neighborhood
In addition, you can also drive around the neighborhood or take a walk in advance of the viewing. This allows you to taste the atmosphere in the neighborhood and you get a better view of the location of the house. You also get an idea of the amount of traffic in the street and the facilities in the area. This can help you to make a well-considered choice about the rental property.
Daring to look critically
During the viewing, it is important that you dare to take a critical look at the property. You often become completely enthusiastic when the house appears to meet your requirements. Still, it's wise to take off those rose-colored glasses. This helps you to make a good estimate. As we said before, the property may not meet all your requirements. It is important to form a realistic picture and to make a good assessment.
Photos
Taking photos can help you make a good choice about the rental property. That way you can view the house again at a later time. During the viewing you get a lot of information and you cannot remember everything well. By taking pictures, you can look back at everything in peace. Incidentally, it is a good idea to ask the broker or resident for permission to take photos in advance.
Flaws
During the viewing, it is important to take off the rose colored glasses. Not only to make a good estimate of the rental property, but also because of any defects in the property. Don't settle for mold on the walls or cracks in the ceiling. It is good to report these defects and/or damage. These defects can be the responsibility of the landlord, but also of the current tenant. Make sure you report any defects in time. In this way you cannot be held liable for damage or defects that you have not caused.
A lick of paint
Sometimes it is difficult to see whether a rental property suits you. Especially when your home could use a lick of paint or when the decor of the current residents does not suit your style at all. Try to look through this and try to visualize the house with your furniture and a fresh lick of paint. These small adjustments already do wonders for the eye.
Make decision
In short, there are a lot of things you have to take into account. Good preparation is half the job. To help you on your way, we have made a checklist that can help you during the viewing. That way you know enough about the rental property to make a good choice. Keep in mind that you often want to stay in this house for years, perhaps your entire life. It is therefore important to make an informed decision. The checklist can help you with this.
Checklist rental property
Location and surroundings of the house
Does the neighborhood meet your requirements? What is the position of the sun? What are the amenities like nearby? Is the house centrally located? Is it a quiet or lively area? How busy is the street? Is it easy to park at the house?
General condition of the house
What is the condition of, for example, the paintwork, window frames, windows, doors, roof and/or gutters? Are the sanitary facilities still good and are the existing equipment working? Are there defects in the home such as leaks or mould? What is the state of the finish of the house (floors, walls, hinges and locks)?
Layout
Does the layout of the house meet your needs? Also consider the surface area and the number of bedrooms.
Heating, electricity and insulation
Which energy label does the house have? Is there central heating available? Are there sufficient sockets available?
Sanitary
What is the condition of the plumbing, tiles and grout? Does everything work properly and what about the ventilation options?
Kitchen
What is the condition of the kitchen and associated equipment? Is there sufficient storage space and is there a separate group in the meter cupboard for all appliances in the kitchen?
Outside
Does the house have a balcony or other outdoor space? Is it well maintained, big enough and what is its position in relation to the sun?
Questions
There are also other questions you can ask during the viewing that may be important. Consider, for example, the security of the home, a possible shed and/or storage room and whether the home is delivered furnished. Ask yourself what you find important in a home and respond to this during the viewing.