1.  Ask about moving expenses -  Make sure to always ask your Realtor or the landlord about the moving expenses. These expenses are usually comprised of security deposits, advance rental payments, application fees, move-in (refundable or in some cases non-refundable) fees, pet deposits, etc. You don't want any unpleasant surprises after you have committed to renting a property. We always find out the details for you because it is our job to protect your money.

      2.  Find out what is included in the rent -  You know you have a budget to stick to, so make it your priority to know what is included with that rental payment. Association fees, pool & lawn maintenance, cable, pest control. These items can seem insignificant at first, but the expenses will add up.

      3.  Ask about pet restrictions in advance -  Having a pet can be an obstacle to renting various properties, so make it a point to tell your agent about your pet. Most communities with homeowners or condominium associations have some sort of restriction regarding number of pets allowed, weight, and in some cases, breeds. Make sure not to waste any time by telling your Realtor about your beloved pet in advance.

      4.  Assign maintenance responsibilities -  Your agent should be able to negotiate the best terms when it comes to assigning responsibilities in the lease agreement. Maintenance is a fact of life and it usually costs. Make sure the maintenance burden is fairly distributed because making changes to the lease at a later time is usually very difficult.

      5.  Utilize Your Realtor-  By aligning yourself with the right real estate professional you will have an entire team at your disposal.  A professional Realtor will know the neighborhoods, floor plans, parking details, association rules,

and so many other details that will save you time and money. Get the most of your Realtor's expertise.

      6.  Be Columbo-  Check out all costs and expenses before you sign.  Utilities, insurance, maintenance and home owner dues if applicable.  Make sure all utilities (gas, electricity, and water) are on during your walk-through so you can inspect everything in working order.  Ask lots of questions and be very detail conscious.

      7.  Do a Final Walk-Through-  Visit the property after all furnishings have been moved out to be sure there are no surprises.  Be absolutely positive the property was left exactly as you had agreed upon in the contract.  Things that could have been spotted in a final walk-through are often unintentionally overlooked.

      8.  Plan For Flexibility-  Move-in dates are not written in stone.  Allow for contingencies and have a back-up plan.  If you or the landlords need a little more time to conclude the final arrangements, don’t let these delays upset or frustrate you.  These types of circumstances are not uncommon in a real estate transaction. 

      9.  If It’s Not In Writing, It Doesn’t Exist-  All promises and discussions should be in writing.  Don’t make any assumptions or believe any assurances.  Even the best intentions can be misinterpreted.  Have your professional keep an ongoing log in writing of all discussions and get the seller’s written approval on all agreements.

      10.  Loyalty Breeds Loyalty-  Be open, honest and up front with your Realtor.  Hard feelings and disloyalty will cause head aches, delays or may even keep you from getting into the home you worked so hard to locate.  Take the time to select the right Realtor in the beginning and your home purchase will be a pleasing and memorable experience.

            We sincerely hope these tips and ideas are of value to you.  If there is any way we can be of service please contact our office.  We would consider it a privilege to be of service to you!  Call our office at (954) 315-0346.