Renting a home is a complicated process. Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned pro, navigating the rental market can be overwhelming. Just like with buying a home, it’s easy to make mistakes or miss important details. Here are some tips for avoiding common renter mistakes.
When you’re choosing a place to live, it’s crucial to understand the terms, conditions and all details included in the lease to avoid any issues or confusion. Some especially important things to look out for are financial details like how and when to pay rent, late fees and maintenance costs. Other commonly skimmed items that can cause problems are pet policies, decorating restrictions and more specific details like the number of vehicles allowed at the property.
Reading through your lease and any additional documents is important, but so is asking questions. Ask about anything you are unsure about. Open and honest communication with your landlord or property management company will ensure everyone in the agreement is on the same page.
Many managers and landlords require renter’s insurance. However, even if it’s not required, it’s in your best interest to have a policy in place to protect you. Most policies cover damage or loss of personal effects in case of fire, flood, theft or other expensive and catastrophic situations.
Some landlords might require you to have tenant liability coverage as part of your renter’s insurance. This doesn’t cover your own belongings but covers any damage or loss you might cause to the property. For example, if you accidentally break a window, the provider will cover the costs of the repairs and potentially save you a bundle.
Unfortunately, it’s extremely common for the advertised rent price to differ from what you end up paying every month. Some properties and communities include charge fees not advertised on rental listings. Community maintenance fees usually cover things like landscaping and parking lots but may also include the cost of amenities like fitness centers or pools regardless of use. If the property allows pets, clarify whether there is additional deposit or “pet rent” required.
Besides what’s included in the rent check, your budget should include costs like utility bills, Wi-Fi and cable. These costs vary by area and service provider but all combine into your monthly living expenses.
The rental process is complicated, but as long as you know what to look for you can avoid common and expensive mistakes. Keep this advice in mind during your rental search in order to make the most informed decision.
As a lifelong resident of Litchfield County, Heather is quite familiar with the beautiful Northwest Corner of Connecticut. In partnership with her husband at Turri, Inc., in Torrington, she managed and grew a 30+ employee electrical contracting firm that served both the residential, commercial and industrial industries. Currently residing in Goshen she hopes to transfer and utilize many of the skills she learned in contracting to the real estate industry.
Knowing how a vital community relies on its volunteers, Heather spent many hours in several capacities at local organizations that she admires. She serves on the Woodridge Lake Finance Committee and House Committee, Victoria Court Condominium Association (secretary) and Educating Canines Assisting with Disabilities (volunteer and nursery mom). Heather has also been involved with Goshen Community Care & Hospice (president of board of directors), Warner Theatre (board of directors), LARC (volunteer), Festival of Trees (founder), the Northwest Chamber of Commerce, and Goshen Business Circle. Heather also served as Vice President of Woodridge Lake’s Board of Directors.
In Heather’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with family usually in an active way by playing tennis, golf, boating, hiking and skiing.
Heather is honored to be a part of the E.J. Murphy team and hopes you will contact her with any of your real estate needs.
