10 readers tips for people renting for the first time

RENTING a property for the first time can be a bit daunting, but The Bulletin readers have some tips for first time renters that could be handy.

Picture: tifotter

RENTING a property for the first time can be a bit daunting, but The Bulletin readers have some tips for first time renters that could be handy.

Here are readers tips in a nutshell:

1. Take photographs of everything - before moving stuff in, during your tenancy and before you hand the keys back.

2. RESPECT - the property and your neighbours.

3. Make sure it is clean when you inspect it for the first time, and that it is in a suitable location for your needs

Picture: David Stuart

4. Pay your rent on time. Better yet, set up direct debit so it automatically comes out of your bank account. And if you pay an extra $5 (if you can spare it), when it comes time to relocate, you don't have to scratch around for the extra week of rent to cover the time of cleaning after your stuff is out.

Cash money Photo: Barry Leddicoat / Sunshine Coast Daily. Picture: Barry Leddicoat

5. Drive past your intended property at different times of the day. This will show you where the sun will be positioned and also what the neighbourhood is like.

Picture: David Stuart

6. Do up a budget before looking to figure out how much you can afford to pay in rent (don't forget to allow for some emergency money).

Picture: Candyce Braithwaite

7. Read through your contracts thoroughly and learn your rights

Tara Price models glasses from Gladstone Vision. Picture: Tom Huntley

8. Take notice of the front steps. If they are in very bad condition, so is the rest of the house

Picture: tifotter

9. Always now, keep the place clean enough to eat off the floor in the toilet, never have pets. Also insure your own contents it's your responsibility not the owners.

Woman Washing Plate. Picture: AndreyPopov

10. Stay at home with mum and dad. Save money for a home loan, travel, have fun, buy a car, etc.

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Read the full conversation here:

RANDOM QUESTION: What are your tips for someone looking to rent a property for the first time?

Posted by The Morning Bulletin on Tuesday, 23 June 2015

Originally published as 10 readers tips for people renting for the first time