Relocating to a new state, city, or suburb means you want to rent or buy a property for your residential purposes. If you are in the market for a new rental property, you mustn’t be carried away by the beauty of the exterior, or the already existing decor. All that glitters is not gold. What do I recommend? You must ask your real estate agent key questions before rental payments.
It helps if you are observant during your property inspections and know what to look for when renting a house. You must look for essential areas to ensure everything is in order.
However, other aspects may be a tad bit vague to you, especially if the house on your radar has issues. You may only notice them after paying and moving in. Once you sign the lease agreement, it may be a cat-and-mouse game to get your refund!
Nervous? Calm down – let me take you through what you need to avoid any sticky situation. So, what are the key questions to ask a real estate agent when renting? Ask these questions before seeing any house you like. Getting answers may narrow your options to the best for your specific needs. After all, there is no harm in seeking knowledge, is there? With the help of our guide, you’ll learn how to get a rental property faster.
The following are some questions to get you started on what to look out for when inspecting a rental. You can add unique questions specifically tailored to your needs.
Why did the previous tenant move out?
Ever wondered how to negotiate rent? This question may sound off, but it is crucial, especially if the house has been unoccupied for some time. Also, you must ask this question if the house has other tenants and your rent covers one room.
Find out why the former occupant of your room or house had to move out; it may be beneficial in the long run. If there were issues with the facilities, it allows you time to sort them out before paying the rent or moving into the house. Furthermore, does the rent roll over to another person if an old occupant moves out, or do you get a refund? This information is imperative.
What is the proximity to the centre of town?
Another essential question is how close the rental apartment is to the central business district or crucial places. It depends on whether or not you are new to that area – you may already know your way around. If you do not, the rental agent can help you find out where the stores are, and how far it is to specific places in your schedule.
It is crucial to consider your proximity to important places, such as the hospital or workplace. You can calculate transportation or fuel costs. There seems to be a steady increase in the cost of fuel, which ultimately affects your transportation costs.
According to the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), on average, your household may spend about $340 on transport per week, and about 15% of its income for the same purpose in a month. The transportation cost in a capital city may be higher if you opt to live there because of the higher cost of living.
What are the fees for a real estate agent?
The fees real estate agents charge you depend on a few factors, but you must consider the total costs before using any agent. Some agents charge a higher fee than others, which does not always mean they have better offers for you.
One of the determining factors of a real agent’s fees to charge you is the location. States and cities like Sydney and Melbourne have higher agency fees than others like Victoria or Tasmania if you live there. Suburbs or regional areas may charge lower than these cities because of the lower cost of living so you can consider such places.
Other factors that may affect your fees include the agent’s experience in the market, the value of the house for rent, and market competition. When an agent has more experience than others, they may be better at selling houses to you and may demand more in commissions. On the flip side, the agent may demand a lower commission from you if they sell more houses. Additionally, if many agents are vying for business in that area, you may get lower rates. That makes sense, doesn’t it?
What does my rent cover?
For some landlords and property owners, your rent covers many things, including utilities and facility maintenance. The real estate agent should tell you what your rent covers, including a maintenance request, before signing a lease.
For example, if you are a renter in a place like Victoria, you must pay for water if the rented property has a dedicated metre. You must also cover the charge for sewage disposal, although some landlords may offer to cover it. In such a case, your lease agreement must include this clause to avoid conflicts in the future.
The same rule applies to your electricity, gas, and oil bills. In the absence of a metre, the rental provider is liable for paying the charges in your place. Other states and cities may have different rules that apply when it comes to what the rent covers.
Who takes care of the outdoors or facilities?
This question may be answered if your real estate agent explains what your rent covers. Sometimes, a landlord may insist that you, the renter, must be in charge of caring for the outdoor facilities.
It may entail you keeping it clean, mowing the lawn, and ensuring other areas are in order. Other landlords or property managers may include in your lease that they are responsible for the facilities, that way, you know it is not your financial burden, even if the rent does not cover it.
FAQs
What is required to rent a house in Australia?
You will need proof of your identity, past rental records, and proof of income, such as a bank statement and credit report in some cases. You will also fill out an application form and submit it before renting. Additionally, is renter’s insurance required from you? Find out from the agent.
How much is the average rent in Australia?
There is no central amount that indicates the average weekly or monthly rent you pay in Australia. Each city has a different amount based on the standard of living, with major cities costing higher than others. For example, Canberra charges $690 per week, which is the most expensive. Australian Capital Territory also charges $690 per week, and Sydney charges $650.
What do landlords look for in a tenant in Australia?
Every landlord or senior property manager wants a tenant who will minimise wear and tear on their property. They want someone who will care for the investment property as if it belonged to them. Also, they prefer tenants who pay on time and take property management to heart.
