Things to Know as a First Time Renter
Joline
Things Every First Time Renter Should Know
Updated 1/6/2019
Are you looking into renting your first home or apartment? If so, there are some things that you as a first time Renter can plan and have prepared before you start checking out potential living spaces. Moving into a home or apartment on your own for the first time requires a lot of responsibility. As property managers in Redding and Shasta County who have over twenty years of experience managing rental properties, we would like to help you transition into your first rental home or apartment by giving you some tips on some things to consider before you start looking into properties.
1. Know your budget
– Before you look into renting, it is essential that you as a future renter know what you can afford for monthly rent payments. Knowing your budget upfront will help you narrow down different properties that you are considering. It is also essential to know your budget up front so that you do not commit to a property that is over your budget and gets yourself in a bind financially.
2. Provide proof of employment and income
– For financial stability, landlords are potentially going to want to see evidence of employment and a stable income upfront to consider you as a potential renter. Any late unpaid rent payments will fall back on your landlord and affect their finances negatively, so it is important that you have a consistent job and a stable income lined up.
3. Be willing to provide a co-signer
– If you are sharing the home or apartment with multiple people, your landlord may ask for only one or two of you to sign the lease, which would mean that whoever signs it will be responsible for the entire rent for the house. That means that if you sign it and your housemates have late or unpaid rent payments, it will fall back on you to make those payments. If you are asked to sign a lease and be responsible for the rent for the house, it would be wise for you to have someone co-sign the lease with you so that not all of the financial responsibility will fall back on you. Make sure that whoever you find to co-sign with you is financially responsible.
4. Be willing to provide references
– Your landlord may ask for references because they may want to see how stable and consistent you would be as a tenant. Providing a list of references upfront without your landlord even asking will impress them.
5. Inspect your new apartment
– When you first move in, inspect everything to make sure there are no damages or repairs that need to be done. If you inspect your apartment or home and find that there are repairs that need to be done, submit them in writing to your landlord as soon as possible.
If you have any questions or would like more information on how you can best prepare for renting and moving into your first home or apartment, feel free to call us at 530-410-6085!
Share this post with a friend!
Disclaimer: The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or advice. Consult with a qualified professional for specific advice.
Celebrating a decade of trust and growth with rental market updates, spring prep tips, and a look ahead to a bright future in Redding real estate.
High mortgage rates in 2025 are creating strong opportunities for Redding property investors as renting becomes more attractive than buying.
Maximize your rental income while keeping great tenants—smart rent increases make all the difference!
