Renting a house is one of the most important activities in life. Therefore, when looking for rental space, you have to take your time to ensure that you find the right home for your family. However, if you're not careful during the process, you might make

• Author: Monica Jackson
• Posted: 2024-03-06

Besides, you might have to re-start your search after realizing that you made a mistake during the rental process. Therefore, when looking for a rental house, research extensively and prepare in advance. Then, avoid the following mistakes that might leave you with regrets:

1. Signing a Rental Contract Hurriedly

Most rental contracts are different depending on the type of house and its exact location. Therefore, it is important to read the entire agreement several times until all the details are clear. Assuming that the contract you are about to sign is similar to others you had signed previously is a big mistake. Besides, signing a document with controversial clauses might present different challenges or even lawsuits in the future.

Therefore, before you put pen to paper, ensure that you understand every clause in the rental agreement. If some classes are hard to understand, consult a professional real estate agent for advice. That will ensure that the document does not infringe your tenant rights.

2. Not Taking Time to Inspect the Neighborhood

Not taking time to inspect the neighborhood of the house you want to rent might cost you a fortune in the future. But, even if you're going to get the rental home before another tenant, failing to inspect the neighborhood is a serious mistake.

Regardless of how spacious the house is and or how incredible the interior and exterior parts of the house look, make sure that the neighborhood you want to move to is safe and peaceful. Visit the neighborhood at different times to ensure that there is a serene environment 24/7.

During your visits, find out how far essential amenities, schools, markets, and recreational services are from the house you want to rent. Besides, when touring different areas, talk to different people and find out what they think about the security situation of that specific area.

3. Paying Rent without Seeing the Size and Condition of the House

Regardless of how urgently you need a rental space, never complete a deal without seeing the condition and size of the house you want to rent. If a property owner or real estate agent persuades you to sign a rental agreement before seeing the house, think twice. The house might be smaller than what you wanted, or it might be in a deplorable condition.

Therefore, before paying rent, find out whether the house matches the description given by your property owner or agent. Also, ask about maintenance issues and water and electricity supply. Finally, talk to the neighbors to know whether the area has a constant supply of all the essential utilities round the clock.

When inspecting the house, act as a professional house inspector. Inspect every component to ensure that everything is in top shape before signing the rental agreement.

4. Not taking of photos the house's Condition before Moving in

Taking photos of the house's condition before moving in might save you a lot of money in the future. For example, if you don't take pictures of all the damaged components of the house before you move in, your landlords might conclude that the damages happened after you occupied the place. Moreover, they might deduct a fraction or the total amount of the deposit you submitted when renting the house.

To avoid such disputes, take pictures of all the damaged parts before moving into your rental house. Then, notify your property owner about any deformities immediately you notice them. That will enable your property owner to undertake the necessary repairs before the specific condition worsens.

5. Not Notifying Your Landlord about Every Maintenance Required

After moving into your new house, always inform your property owner about every maintenance issue you come across. A small electrical fault or a plumbing issue can worsen within a short time. Moreover, it can lead to injuries or destruction of property.

Therefore, you should never ignore a problem regardless of how minor it appears. If you notice a maintenance issue, notify your property owner immediately. Moreover, if the situation is hazardous, call in a plumber or electrician yourself for immediate repairs. Then, deduct the charged amount for the fixes when paying your rent. Before the fixtures, take photos of the damaged components and keep receipts given by the repair person as evidence if your landlord has any doubts about the repairs.

Final Thoughts

Before renting a house and after moving in, avoid the five mistakes above if you don't want to regret them later. Instead, keep the information in mind and use it as your guide as you look for the next rental space and every other time you want to rent a house in the future.