Are you considering renting a property? There's a lot to think about to ensure you find the perfect place for your needs. To help you make the right choice, we've compiled some useful tips and pointers on what questions to ask during your rental property search.

Know Your Requirements:

Rental properties come in various shapes and sizes. Narrow down your search by considering the following factors:

• Preferred location: Choose your area based on your commute to work, schools and local amenities. You may want to be close to family or friends.
• Furnished or unfurnished: Decide if you need a fully furnished place or have your furniture.
• Budget: Determine your budget, including potential utility costs and council tax.
• Move-in date: Landlords often expect tenants to move in within a month of the property becoming available.
• Rental Duration: An average tenancy agreement is 12 months, but sometimes this can be shorter.
• Start your search: Use our property search feature on our website or speak with our dedicated team who will help you to find your ideal property.

Set a Realistic Budget:

Make sure you can afford the rent and other living expenses:

• Budget for utility costs: Allocate at least £200 per month for gas, electricity, and water.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Check the EPC for estimated energy costs and energy-saving tips.
• Council tax: Most tenants pay council tax, but full-time students are usually exempt.
• Income requirements: Typically, landlords expect your income to be around 2.5 times the rent.
• Schedule Property Viewings: Never apply for a property without viewing it first
• Book in advance: Arrange viewings with at least 24 - 48 hours' notice, especially for tenanted properties.
• Plan ahead: Saturday viewings are popular, so schedule accordingly if viewing over the weekend.
• Ask questions: During your viewing, ask questions about the property and the area, and engage with the current tenant if present.
• Check Inclusions in the Property: Find out what's provided with the rental property, especially for furnished and unfurnished homes:
• Review the inventory: Ask to see the current inventory to know what comes with the property.
• Check specifics: Confirm if particular items you need are included or not.

Calculate Initial Costs:

Understand the initial monies required for moving in:

• Rent in advance: Know how much rent will be due before moving in.
• Deposit details: Learn about the deposit amount and how it will be protected.
• Moving costs: Calculate moving costs, especially if you are going to have to rent a van to help you move your belongings or have a company do this for you.
• Furnishing costs: If you are moving into rented accommodation for the first time and don’t have any furnishings, you will need to work this out. Most properties come with a fitted kitchen, including white appliances. If you move into an unfurnished property, you will need to work out the costs of purchasing your living room, bedroom and office furniture. You will also need to work out kitchen utensils, including plates, kettle etc…
• Your first shop: If you are moving in for the first time, you will need to kit your kitchen with a food shop.

Gather Application Information:

Prepare the necessary documentation for a smooth application process:

• Photo I.D.
• Proof of address
• Income evidence and work references
• A guarantor, if needed

Arrange Internet Provision:

Avoid delays in getting Internet access by reserving a date for installation before moving in.

Consider Insurance:

While landlords insure the building, getting insurance for your own contents and other tenant obligations is crucial.

If you are looking to rent in Leicester, speak with our dedicated team who will help you find your ideal home and guide you through every step of the process.