Finding the right rental property can be a challenging process, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Whether you’re renting for the first time or looking to move into a new place, it’s important to consider not just the cost of rent but also the features and factors that will influence your daily living experience. Here’s our comprehensive guide to help you identify the ideal rental property that meets your needs.

1. Location and Accessibility

  • Proximity to Work and School: Consider how far you are willing to commute, and if you are unfamiliar with traffic congestion levels in the area, return to check out the roads at different times of the day. If you have school aged children, you will also need to ensure the property is located in-zone for your desired schools.
  • Neighbourhood Safety and Amenities: Research the safety of the neighbourhood. Check out what local amenities are nearby such as grocery stores, pharmacies, medical centres, parks, and recreational facilities.

2. Affordability

  • Rental Price: Determine a realistic budget that allows for annual rent reviews and potential increases. Once you find a property you’re interested in, ensure the rent aligns with comparable properties in the area. You don’t want to be stuck paying above-market rent for the duration of your tenancy.
  • Utilities and Additional Costs: When assessing affordability, take into account your common utilities such as water rates, power, gas, and internet.

3. Condition of the Property

  • General Maintenance and Cleanliness: During your visit, check that the property is well-maintained and clean. Look for signs of dampness or mould, which could impact your day-to-day living experience. Any existing damage to the property needs to be recorded in the property condition report at the beginning of the tenancy.
  • Appliances and Fixtures: Take note of what appliances are available at the property, such as heat pumps, oven and extractor fans.

4. Size and Space

  • Space Requirements: Consider the size of the property and whether it meets your needs in terms of space and storage. Are the room sizes adequate? Are there enough wardrobes and storage areas?
  • Practical Layout: Think about how the space is laid out and whether it suits your lifestyle. For example, if you work from home, is there adequate room for your desk or even a home office?
  • Parking: If you own a car, check how many parking spaces are available. It also pays to confirm the number of cars allowed to be parked at the property on an ongoing basis, as there are sometimes clauses in tenancy agreements that stipulate a limit. 

5. Access

  • Entry and exit points: Take note of the all the entry and exit points to the property, and if the rental is situated within a complex, identify how best to get in and out.  

6. Heating and Cooling

  • Comfort Management: Make sure the property has effective solutions for heating and cooling. Consider the climate of the area and whether the existing systems are adequate, or you may be likely to incur excessive power bills over summer or winter when using additional appliances, such as fans and heaters, to supplement heating and cooling.

7. Noise Levels

  • Surrounding Noise: View the property from the roadside at a different time of day to get a sense of the noise levels from traffic, neighbours, or local businesses. Excessive noise can have a significant impact on the quality of day-to-day living.

Choosing the right rental property is crucial for your comfort and happiness. Take your time to inspect the property thoroughly and ask plenty of questions during the viewing. Remember, this could be your home for the foreseeable future, so it’s worth ensuring it’s a place where you can feel comfortable and secure.

It is also beneficial to engage in a rental agreement through a property manager, as opposed to directly with private landlords. Renting through a property manager ensures tenants have the protection of dealing with professionals who understand tenancy laws, provide clear communication, and maintain compliance—offering a safer and more reliable experience compared to some private landlords who may unknowingly or deliberately breach regulations.

At EVES, we’re here to help you navigate your rental options and find a property that feels like home. For more advice or to view our listings, contact us today! www.evesrentals.co.nz