Renter Resources
Renter’s resources
I have had several clients ask me to post something in regards to renting and how it can help with getting a mortgage. I have come up with a few items I would looking into if I was going to rent or items as a land lord I look for in perspective renters.
As a Renter
1. Do a meth test
Any place you are going to put you and your family makes sure it is safe. Meth test can be purchased online. They are cheap and easy. No matter how nice a place looks DO A TEST
2. Contract
Almost all contracts are different. Read it. Do not just assume what the landlord is telling you is, what is on the contract. Ask questions and make sure anything you make changes to be done in writing.
3. Sign Contract
Make sure to fill out all the paperwork the Landlord gives you and return what you need to in the time frame allowed. Sign all papers.
4. Copies
Get copies of your contract. Make your own copy and get one from your landlord. This is very important. If your landlord sells the property or you want to move you must be able to show the proper documentations to get you released from all liabilities
5. Check out Land Lord
Check and see if the Land Lord is a member of the Utah Apartment Association or if they are licensed with the city to be a land lord. Many are not.
6. Neighbors
Go visit the neighbors, you will be living next to them, it would be a good idea to know who lives there. Ask them if they knew the people who moved out. Ask about problems they have had. Ask them about the Land Lord.
7. Payment
Pay Rent with some method in which you can verify the history. Checking accounts, Certified check, bank transfers, and others. This way you can verify with anyone that rent has been paid, and Paid on time. It will help you with any disputes in the future. Cash is not a preferred method to verify rent was paid.
There are several scams going on right now. I have a friend who rented a home. There was nothing that would have made them think the current owners were behind on the payment to the bank. After living there for 6 months the bank rep showed up to inform them the home was in foreclosure and they needed to vacate the property. They could not find their contract and the Landlord was not willing to speak to them, they lost their rent money, deposit, and they had to move on very short notice.
PROTECT YOURSELF
Land Lord
1. Stability
I ask about how stable the people are. If they will sign a longer lease I give them discounts.
2. Animals
If you have them BE HONEST. They will have accidents but have a plan. Puppy mat, litter box, etc..
3. Credit
I understand you may have credit problems. It is usually why you are renting. Again BE HONEST. Most people, if they have perfect credit, would not be renting. Tell me everything so I do not have to become a detective and find things out by surprise. I do not like surprises.
4. History
Tell me about you rental history. Things you liked and did not like about where you have lived before. Tell me about past land lords
5. Distractions
I like to spend some time with the people I rent to. I like them to understand what I expect and everything about the home. Pets, Kids, phone calls, texts, ECT.. Can all be distractions that could inhibit you and I to understand everything about the home and contract. If you can help it please find arrangements for distractions during conversations between Landlord and Renter.
6. Communicate
Always have an open line of communication. If you have a question, call, text, or email it. This makes life easier for the renter and the Landlord.
These are just a few items I have come up with. Please email or call me if you have any you would like to add. I wish everyone the best with renting and when it comes time to buy a home please let me know. I would love to help you.
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