House rentals and apartment rentals are a huge part of so many people’s lifestyles. The Used.ca sites are a hub of activity when it comes to our real estate rentals pages. Finding the right place for you can be a battle and it certainly helps to have a little knowledge under your belt. This article covers some important tips to consider before renting a house or apartment.

Understand the Terms

When you get into house rentals and apartment rentals, there needs to be an agreement established between you and the owner (or, in some cases, the property management company). Read over the agreement carefully, and always ask questions if you are unsure of any of the terms. The agreement is made up so that you hold to your end of the bargain, but it can help to ensure the owner stays true to their word, too.

Have Referrals Handy

Imagine you owned a home and you were ready to rent it to someone. The first thing you would want to know is that the people to whom you are renting are reliable and good folk. Be sure to have references, whether they are employers, past teachers, or former owners of places you have rented. Usually, references from parents or friends wouldn’t suffice, but if you’re really stuck, you could try putting a close friend down as a reference. Be sure to ask them first, so it’s not a surprise when they get a phone call.

Anticipate a Rent Increase

When you get into a lease agreement, it’s important to understand that a rent increase may occur. There is a time obligation that the owner must adhere to before they can increase your rent, and it’s different depending upon where you are renting your home, but an increase can happen and it’s good to know this. When you are choosing a place to live, choose house rentals and apartment rentals that are within your budget, and still within your budget if the rent increased by a few dollars. Ask your landlord about increases if you are unsure.

Act Quickly

If you’re searching online for house rentals or apartment rentals, and you come across something really great, be sure to act quickly. This is not to say that you need to sign the papers tomorrow, but be sure to set up an appointment to view the place as soon as humanly possible. It’s good to get in the door quickly so that, if it’s the right place for you, you can ask to fill out an application sooner than later. Desirable apartments in desirable areas go quickly.

Know the Important Numbers

Before leaving the house rentals office, or signing on the dotted line, it’s important to be sure that you have the contact names and numbers of the people you will be connecting with regarding rent payments, appliance repair, and so forth. If you are dealing with a property management company, they will often provide those details to you in a nice folder once you have signed your agreement. Sometimes, you will need to ask for that information, and it is important that you ask because if, all of a sudden, your heater stops working and you rely on it to keep your family warm, you need to know who you can call.

Quick links to apartment rentals in your area:

House Rentals Halifax

House Rentals Ottawa

House Rentals PEI

House Rentals Regina

House Rentals Vancouver

House Rentals Victoria