1. Choosing a home to rent is an exercise in values clarification, much like finding a job or buying a car. There are always tradeoffs to be made as to what is more important. Make a written list to help yourself get clarity with regard to your personal priorities.
2. Start your search by choosing a neighborhood. Drive around, stop into the local shopping center and see if it feels like a comfortable place to call home.
3. Become familiar with current market values so you can spot a reasonable deal.
4. Check the county tax records to make sure that the party you are renting from is the actual owner and that the home is not in the process of foreclosure. If the rent is below fair market value and the owner does not care about your credit, be careful . . . it might be a scam.
Learn more by reading "Renters in Foreclosure: What are their rights?"
5. When you apply for a rental, fill out the application completely and provide requested information promptly. Increase your chances of getting the place you want by impressing your prospective new landlord with your responsible attention to detail and promptness. You'd be surprised at how many applicants fail to do this.
6. Use the internet to search for your new home.
7. If you have pets, consider preparing a pet resume.
8. Investigate the benefits of renters insurance. It is very affordable.
9. Complete a thorough written inspection report on the home and photograph any item important enough to mention on the report.
10. Take the time to read your lease agreement carefully and question any area that you do not fully understand. An experienced agent can be a big help in this area.
11. If there is more to your story than can be told on a standard application, consider volunteering additional information by using a rental resume.
12. Work with a qualified rental agent to help you through the process. Since agents are compensated by the property owner, there is no cost to you.
