What little things to look for when renting a home?

Question

my Husband and I are checking out a home for rent and I'm wondering if there's anything I should check for that most people wouldn't think of? (like running the taps to see how long it takes to get hot water, checking to see if there's enough plug-ins, outside lighting, squeaky floors, etc.) Thanks!

Answer 1

You need 2 phone number, one to reach the landlord and an after hours number, in case the water line breaks in the middle of the night or the furnace goes out at midnight. Other then that, put everything in writing and stick to it. How much is clean up fee when you leave, who pays for new carpet/cleaning also, how much of the deposit gets returned to you and when in writing it doesn't have to be typed out on the lease, just write it in.

Answer 2

20 year old wife the most important thing for me would be is it a good neighborhood,  to raise a family. Most minor defects in a house can be easily repaired.

Good Luck

Answer 3

I can not stress this enough CHECK THE INSULATION IN THE ATTIC. When renting a home landlords have slum laws to keep them on top of routine mantience but for some reason insulation in attics do not fall into most state slum laws. And if you rent only to find that there is no insulation or it is insuficient it will all be on you which can cost a fortune to heat or cool.

Answer 4

what is most important is what is required of you by the lease that you are going to sign. Your landlord is responsible for anything that breaks (like waterheaters, airconditioning units, heaters and the like)...see what the lease contains that you are responsible for.  Like what kind of notice is required when you intend to leave.  Do you need to have carpets professionally cleaned.  Can you paint the walls.  Are there any items not covered by the landlord that would become your responsibility.  I even saw a lease while I was renting that was very specific on where I could park my car and how many guests I was limited to and how long they could stay. Are pets allowed.  And what happens when the rent is late.  You can tell alot about what type of landlord you will have by how promptly they indicate they will respond to a problem.  Its not how may outlets you have that will make or break your stay.  A great landlord will make living there a pleasure, a rotten one can make even the most perfect place...h**l.

Good Luck in your search.