Real Estate

So what is the procedure for renting a house?

We all have a first time, right? It doesn’t matter what it is, but there is a first time; we twitch a little unsure if what we’re doing is right, the way it’s done, or if we’re on the right track.

Well, renting your first home is no different, or maybe it’s been so long since you last rented that you’ve forgotten about the application process.

Before I start explaining the process, it’s worth understanding that rents can move very quickly, it’s not unusual for properties to renew in a day or two, so be prepared to make your decision quickly and be aware of your obligations in your current housing: Is 28 days notice required, or is it only 14 days? Have you already given notice? It is imperative to know these deadlines.

Please note that some agencies may operate slightly differently, but in essence, the order of events should be the same.

First, the leasing process:

The first thing, and this may seem strange to point out, is to view the property. Many people these days, due to the potential high demand at openings, will apply before viewing the property. However, we will not process any applications until the applicants have viewed the property.

Assuming you like what you see, then it’s time to submit a request. In most cases it is preferred to submit this via 1Form (the online provider we use for electronic application hosting), if you have attended a Christopher Russell Real Estate inspection and registered as we strongly recommend, there will be received a notification following your inspection of the application procedure and a link to the easy-to-follow online form.

It is a great help to us if you notify the referees in advance. We don’t want to leave employers on the “blind side” etc. with our phone calls and it makes it much quicker to get an answer if the refs comply with our cross-examination, which we find is always the case if they only have a little ‘heads up’. Also make sure to double check that you have covered the 100 point verification, this will save us from having to come back to you for more information and slow down the process even more.

Some properties can be very popular, so if you are really interested in renting the property, don’t hesitate: rentals can rotate in hours, let alone days.

Things to keep in mind when applying:

You can always offer less than the advertised price and you can always offer more; seems strange to offer more? should not; If there are half a dozen people at an open house and you want to get a “step up” over any other applicants, be sure to let the agent know that you can pay more if necessary or put a higher price on your application. Another important consideration is the move-in date: if someone applies to move in immediately, and the property is vacant, and their application indicates that they do not want to occupy the property for another 3-4 weeks, then there is a good chance that your application may not be accepted before applicants who can move in sooner. I’m sure you can appreciate the cost of time.

Once you’ve submitted your application, wait for your property manager to let you know by email where the application is in the process. Some apps will require more information and if this is the case you will be notified. Of course, if you’re not sure, you can always email us to make sure we did in fact receive the request, and we should be able to give you a time frame to get an idea of ​​how long you’ll have to do this. Wait. Personally, I don’t get into trouble. If I get a good application, I go directly to the landlord so I can respond to prospective tenants within hours.

So let’s assume your request is successful; so what? We will generally notify you by phone, unless there is some reason we cannot reach you. We will follow this up with an email formally offering you the property. This email will give you information about the payment of the deposit, the organization of the deposit and a time to sign the leases and hand over the keys.

Once you receive this email, the first and most important step is to pay the deposit. This is usually the first month’s rent. Until the deposit is paid, the property is still “on the market” and any further applications will be submitted to the owner. Once you’ve made the deposit (preferably electronically), submit a receipt to your property manager.

It’s that easy! You are now well on your way to moving into your new home. Now it would be a good idea to download or print a checklist to help you with your relocation (easily found with a Google search).

Key pick up time:

So you’re ready to start your new rental and you’re booked in to collect the keys from the agent. What you will need to do, if these items have not already been addressed, is to bring the voucher with you; this must be in the form of a bank check or money order and made payable to the RTBA, remember, this is your money, not the landlord’s or agent’s and is held in trust by the RTBA for you.

Also, make sure everyone on the lease attends the meeting, especially if the leases haven’t been signed yet. Keys will not be released unless deposits have been paid, leases have been signed and the security deposit check has been received.

You will also be given the Condition Report and a lot of other useful information. While I know that the excitement of the pending move will often overshadow the key collection process, it is imperative that you pay attention to whatever information the property manager provides you at that time, there is likely to be important things regarding your lease.

So that’s it, very simple actually. And remember; if you have any doubts, be sure to ask questions. There are no dumb questions, only dumb answers!

Enjoy your new home.

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