The Best Way To Choose The Rental Flat You Need
Choosing a flat is a very interesting endeavour: it’s the search for a nest, a comfortable place to make into your home. However, it can be daunting at times – especially if it’s your first time. How do you choose the correct flat for you, and what are some of the important things to consider? Here are some simple hints on how to choose the rental flat fit for your needs, preferences, and requirements.
Start with yourself
Before looking at any property or visiting a particular location that you have in mind, make a list of what you need and want. Start with your needs, and list the items you wish but not necessarily require at the end of the list. How many bedrooms do you need? Bathrooms? Do you need a large kitchen? A study? A balcony? How big does the master bedroom need to be? Do you require furniture or will you bring your own?
You may not always get what you want, but being clear on your own requirements will help you in the right direction and is also absolutely essential for fixing your budget.
Check the market
Before going on location to check out rental flat prospects, check the market. This will help you with your decision-making once you do decide to visit properties. Based on the list you have made, go to websites and agencies and check their listings. You’ll immediately get a sense of how high or low the rent will be for a place that suits your needs.
In general, the following items will determine the rental fees:
- Property condition – a new flat or house will cost more than an older one. This quality in condition is not always directly proportional to the rent you have to pay. A perfectly working ‘old’ property might be only half the price of a ‘new’ property, for instance.
- Location – if the property is near the central train station, the shops or mall, the school, or the business district, the price of the property (and therefore, the rent) will increase dramatically as well.
- Safety – make sure the property has the proper fire exits and that the required safety measures (fire extinguishers, fuse box in the correct place, etc.) are present.
- Amenities – modern amenities can make the property more expensive to rent. So can a balcony or small garden, or a storage space near the garage. Check for parking spaces, and so on
Visit, visit, visit
Don’t rely on anyone’s word and go and see for yourself first. And don’t just take the first flat that appeals to you – visit many flats, as many as possible.
The more flats you visit, the better you can get a feel of what the different flats are really worth. Furthermore, never feel pressured into agreeing to rent a flat just because the agency says that there are other parties interested. That’s an old trick. Visit as many flats as you can, and make your choice only after comparing your options.
The trick is not to be too excited about renting the flat. There are many flats on the market, and surely there is one that fits perfectly into your plans. Take your time and choose carefully. Aside from this, always turn to a good and reputable estate agency for some excellent advice. If you are looking for flats to rent in Colchester and other prime areas, you can always turn to trusted agencies like Beresfords Group.