Tips for Selecting a Rental Home

Selecting the perfect rental home for you and your family can seem like an overwhelming task. What should you be looking for or considering? Certainly there are important factors to keep in mind, such as budget, how many bedrooms, number of bathrooms, square footage and build quality. There are other factors, however, to consider when trying to decide if your family will truly be happy in your new rental home.

Take Lots of Photos

If the entire family isn’t able to tour all of the potential homes, make sure to take lots of pictures. It’s important to let everyone get a feel for his or her next space. Additionally, it will give you a way to accurately review all of the homes you have toured – keeping your mind organized!

Decide What Location is Ideal

One main thing to keep in mind is location. What is important to you and your family? Is the school district the number one priority? Do you prefer being close to the action of the city, or do you like the laid back country lifestyle? Use the search feature on Homes.com to easily search rentals by zip code, as well as find listings in nearby locations to ensure you don’t miss your dream home in the locations that best fit your personality.

Choose Which Amenities are Important

Consider which amenities you and your family really need. We all want as many amenities as possible; however, be honest with yourself about which ones are essential. If you are able to compromise on some amenities, such as an outside pool or water view, you may be able to find a home in a better location, or closer to your favorite activities. Don’t get caught up in all the bells and whistles and forget about all the other important factors that go into choosing your perfect rental home.

Get All the Details

Do you have any furry friends? Are you planning on getting your first pet soon? Even if you don’t currently have a pet, it’s important to know what the pet policies of the potential homes are. Unless you have allergies or health risks that prevent you from owning a pet, you never know what the future may hold. Most of the time, pets require an extra security deposit. You will need to inquire as to if there are size, weight, or breed restrictions. Look into any township or homeowners association rules. It’s important to know all of these facts before you select your new rental home.

Finding your perfect rental home is all about your outlook. Instead of seeing it as a daunting task, think of it as a fresh start. Remember, be honest with yourself about the needs and wants that you and your family have and then find the homes that fit those needs. Give each potential home a chance! You will know when you have found the right home, and you will be thankful every day that you asked the right questions and took the time to find your perfect match. And keep in mind that creating a home that is perfect for you is just as important as picking the home itself.