Did you ever feel like you have butterflies in your stomach? Before you start to think of the many instances when it happened, let me just tell you that I am not talking about the butterflies when you are ready for a date or when you head out for an interview. I am talking about the butterflies that you feel when you visit your landlord – for the first time ever!
Honestly, there is nothing like owning an apartment – your individual space where everything happens just the way you want it to be. It is one of those feelings where you suddenly step into adulthood, responsible for taking the important decisions of your life – from paying bills and rent to managing the events that take place in your life.
So, if you’re stepping into that phase of your life where you will be a renter, then here are the tips that you need to keep in mind – because actions do make a lot of difference.
First Impression is The Last Impression – This is so true! First impression is surely the last impression especially when you’re going to meet your potential landlord. Just like an interview this meeting is going to be one important day of your life and you do not want to ruin it with your answers. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fresher in renting or have some experience what matters is how well you can convince the landlord with your answers. Be sure that you have records of your income and dates of employment, contact information and a work reference, as these will lend to your credibility as a renter.
Security Deposit – A majority of the landlords would ask for a security deposit before renting the new apartment. Security deposits and first/last month’s rent are standard parts of any rental agreement these days. These two parts of the lease give your landlord the peace of mind that you have invested in his property and in your living situation. A part of this security amount is what you have to pay in case you cause any damage to the property.
Allowance of Pets – While you are a pet lover, you neighbors might not be. So how do you deal with that? Instead of giving your landlord and the neighbors a surprise by bringing in your pet on the day of moving in it is best you talk about it beforehand. Let them know the details of the pet and its medical history. You do not want to freak them out by constant barking and meowing, so talk about it. Take the permission and ask them if there are other people in the same apartment who own pets.
Finding a Reliable Roommate – Watched the series F.R.I.E.N.D.S? Know how that group of friends were the roommates ever? Find one like them; you might not be able to do so exactly, by someone who’s even closer to who they were it’s a hit. A roommate will not only be the person around you when you want to have a party, but also when you’re sad and need someone to talk to. On a practical side, he/she will be sharing your expenses, so yes you do need one.
Learning How to Budget– Month ends are the most ironic days – you look at others enjoying and partying while you sit like a couch potato eating the home-cooked fries. Don’t let that happen any more – manage your budget. You’ve got to do a lot of things and you need money for all of them, make sure you know how to limit unnecessary demands and only choose the ones that you really need. If you can learn to manage your budget, believe me in the end of the month you will be able to afford a pizza.
With all these tips mentioned-above, it will be easier for you to know the how’s and why’s of a new house. Note down this list and plan accordingly, because you really need it.