Renting your first apartment is an exciting step forward, whether you’re venturing out on your own, with friends, or a significant other. Letting a house is not just a substantial financial commitment, but the home you choose will decide your style of living for the next chapter of your life. In this respect, hindsight may be extremely helpful, as it is with any major life decisions.
If you’re a first-time renter and don’t know what to look out for, don’t worry; this post has you covered.
Don’t go overboard with your spending
In 2021, the average monthly rent in the UK will be £997, with the East Midlands coming out ahead at £704. Bills including council tax, water rates, gas, electricity, internet, mobile phone, and grocery shopping can easily push your monthly outlays in Nottingham to well above £1,000. Nottingham has an average annual salary of £28,000, however, recent graduates and trainees are likely to make far less than that. Though it’s possible to support yourself while living independently on a lower wage, this shouldn’t be your top concern. Instead, focus on getting your financial situation in order so you can pay the rent and other payments on time. Before moving in with roommates, discuss how to rent and utilities will be split. Landlords and property management company typically ask for evidence of income to guarantee tenants can afford the rent.
Learn the lay of the land
If you’re looking to rent in a city you’re already familiar with, it’s tempting to assume you have a firm grasp on the lay of the land. The only way to tell for sure if the neighbourhood is appropriate is to take a stroll through it. This is an especially crucial procedure for newcomers to the area. Locational factors to think about include access to essential services and safety in general. After all, you need a place to call home where you can relax and feel protected, and where you can also easily get the things you use daily. Retail establishments, medical clinics, pharmacies, hospitals, educational institutions, etc.
Learn More About Home Inspections
When viewing properties for the first time, it’s tempting to get excited, but it’s important to keep your cool and make sure you’re getting a decent deal. Be wary of residential property management companies in bad shape, as the issues are unlikely to be addressed before new tenants come in. In order to retain as much information as possible, it is important to actively seek clarification by asking questions, taking pictures, and making notes. Instinct is another factor to consider. As a first-time renter, you probably won’t be able to afford the most expensive units available. Even yet, the home should feel secure and comfortable for its occupants.
To Furnish or Not to Furnish? That Is the Question
First-time movers often lack the household goods essential to settling into a new place on their own. This isn’t always a bad thing, especially if you’re comfortable spending your own money or have plans to hit up Ikea for some bargains. If you’re a first-time renter without a lot of savings, it may be more practical to go with a furnished rental. Although furnished apartments or houses are typically more expensive, they make packing up and leaving at the end of the lease simpler. For this reason, fully furnished apartments are ideal for students and other short-term city dwellers.
Hire a reliable property management company in Nottingham
As one of Nottingham’s best property management company, we at House Manage like to think we know a thing or two about matching tenants with the perfect home. We have several houses available to rent in and around the Nottinghamshire area, as well as a portion of our website devoted specifically to tenants. Why not have a look around at the present market and see what is offered?