Signing a tenancy lease is a big commitment and not one to be taken lightly. When you are caught up in the excitement of moving, it can be easy to forget about minor details, but this must be avoided to ensure a long and happy tenancy agreement. Before you sign the papers and prepare to move home, here is what you should consider.
The Price of Rent and Bills
You must consider the price of both rent and bills before agreeing to rent a place. While the rent might be cheap, the energy bills might bring the overall cost of the place up, so do some calculations before signing. Even if you can technically afford it, you should also make sure that you have enough for food, emergencies, and luxuries.
Remember that you have many costs to cover when moving, too, such as cleaning, the moving van, and the deposit. If you’re leaving behind a rented property, make sure you use the best post tenancy cleaning London company to ensure you get your previous deposit back. After all, you’re going to need all the money you can get!
The Size of the Place
No matter how attractive a property is, make sure you get out your tape measure before committing to it, especially if you have many belongings. You should also consider how many people will be living there, as you need to know everyone will have the space to live comfortably.
While many people assume that the bigger the place, the better, that might not necessarily be true, especially if you want to save money. A bigger property will generally cost you more, and not just in terms of rent – bills, cleaning costs, and council tax will likely be higher, too.
What is Nearby
It’s not just the property you need to take note of; it’s the surrounding area, too. Are you someone who wants a bar around the corner? Do you like a shop within walking distance? Make sure what’s around the property fits in with your lifestyle before signing a lease.
Whether Pets Are Allowed
Many landlords have rules about keeping pets, so make sure you are allowed your fluffy friend before signing the lease. Keeping a pet a secret will only cause more hassle down the line. If you love a property, but your landlord doesn’t want pets, it might be worth having a conversation with them and even offering to let them meet. If a landlord knows the pet is well behaved, they’ll be more likely to let them stay.
How Long the Lease is
If you find an incredible home for a great price, but it’s listed as a six-month lease, then you might want to reconsider. While the interior and the price might be appealing, do you want to have to pack up and go all over again in half a year? Before signing a lease, make sure you know the minimum or maximum lease length is and only sign it if you’re happy with those terms.