Searching for (and getting) a new rental involves many important steps – such as downloading a free rental application and attending a viewing. In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to find a great property and make an equally great first impression.
1) Set a Strict Budget
You can’t even consider applying for a rental if you won’t be able to afford it. The 30% rule says you should only spend 30% of your income on rent and utilities – this alone massively limits your price range.
You can go beyond the 30% barrier, but you’ll likely need to cut costs elsewhere. Most landlords also look for renters who can reliably cover their rent in a slow work month or even via savings if necessary.
2) Establishing Your Priorities
To an extent, you’re at the mercy of the market. You’ll have to find a place that fits your budget – even if it’s not perfect. However, here are some factors about a property and its location that can affect your search:
- Proximity to work or school
- The neighborhood’s crime rate
- Nearby amenities
- A quiet or busy community
- Number of rooms
- Included appliances
- Included utility bills
- The landlord’s pet policy
- Parking space/permits
Figure out your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves, and always prioritize the former. The site you use might even have an advanced search function that lets you narrow down the properties according to some of the above factors.
3) Searching for Rental Properties
There are plenty of sites that have comprehensive rental listings, but even then, no website has every available property. Search as widely as you can; popular sites include, but are not limited to:
- Zoopla
- SpareRoom
- com
- RentCafe
- Facebook Marketplace
- Zumper
Each rental platform has its own conveniences. For example, SpareRoom lets you avoid live-in landlords and even “buddy up” with other users to search for properties together.
Don’t limit yourself to any of the above – you might even find the perfect place on Craigslist. You should also ask around your community; some great listings aren’t even online.
4) Conduct a Viewing
You shouldn’t sign a lease unless you’ve had a chance to view the property. Ideally, you’ll do this before filling out your application, but time isn’t always on your side here.
Ultimately, the pictures, videos, and floor plans on a rental site never tell the full story. You can’t rely on this alone when you’ll likely be giving away thousands of dollars per month. An in-person look could reveal problems the landlord is trying to hide, such as mold in one of the rooms.
This is also a good opportunity to test the property’s appliances and even ensure the furniture is comfortable. Every detail here will help you assess if the property is right for you.
5) Ask Questions
Asking the landlord any questions you have will show that you’re engaged in the process – it will also help you make better, more informed decisions. You should be doing this at every stage of the application process, even if you receive the final lease and have some concerns.
Here are some questions worth asking both before and after an application:
- How will you protect or use the security deposit?
- Would an early termination clause be possible?
- Can I still apply even if I have no rental history?
- What is the minimum credit score you’re looking for?
- Are there any shared building amenities?
- What is your subletting policy?
The online listing will answer most of the obvious questions. Don’t ask these again, as it will just seem like you didn’t read the listing, harming your chance of making a great impression.
6) Submit a Rental Application
Once you’re sure you want to rent a property, submit an application. The landlord may include a template on their listing, or you can find one online. Even if they provide one, an online template might actually include more information.
Rental applications also usually incur a background check fee, which is $30 on average. Most states can charge as much as they like, though some limit this to around $20, and others (such as Vermont) exclude the fee altogether.
7) Secure the Rental
After submitting a comprehensive, honest application, wait to hear back – though don’t be afraid to send a follow-up email. In the meantime, you can also offer to sign a longer-term contract that guarantees the landlord a steady income for years.
You could also negotiate the lease’s terms at this stage; make sure you get every concession in writing. For example, you might be able to get free parking or even cheaper utilities. However, this is always up to the landlord.
Final Thoughts
With the right rental application and enough initiative, you’ll have no problem finding a rental that speaks to you. Once your lease starts, all that’s left is to stay on good terms with your landlord.
