Being on the lookout for a home to rent has its enjoyable moments, but it can also be a harrowing experience. Walking to a sizable pad that is accessible and within your budget: pleasure! Walking into a flat which does not look anything like the pictures: harrowing.
We've observed numerous rental scams in the last few years. To help you avoid scams and to sidestep prospective rentals that are just a waste of time, we have compiled a list of giant rental red flags to keep a lookout for throughout your search.
No invoice or receipt for a deposit
Many renters do not recognize that if a broker or management firm doesn't offer a receipt for your deposit, it is a big red flag. Before giving anyone a big chunk of change, look up their company and be sure they're legit.
If you know you are dealing with real brokers but they say they do not have proper receipts, ask them to email you confirmation, and don't leave them until you see it in your inbox.
You always want a paper trail in case any money changes hands.
Listings without images
Everyone has a camera in their pocket these days, so a property listing without at least a few photos typically suggests that the place is a dump.
If listing details are vague or there are no pictures, there is a good reason.
Too good to be true
You also need to be on the lookout for listings which claim the property is decked out by amenities, is below market value, and attributes photographs that look as though they belong in Architectural Digest.
If an apartment appears to be too good to be accurate in record pictures, then it probably is not accurate.
A bait and switch--where imitation photographs are posted in the list to lure potential renters--can happen, so let your common sense guide you before committing to anything or registering a lease sight unseen.
If it feels just like you are making out like a bandit, then you probably don't have all of the facts, and you need to continue your search elsewhere.
Untidy common areas
It may seem minor, but trash that has blown into the landscaping or a dirty common area may be red flag as well.
"If the property manager does not care enough to arrive a couple of minutes early to set the stage for a fantastic tour, what else might they not care about?" If a rental appears like it isn't well-maintained, then you're bound to become an unhappy tenant.
No credit or background check
A landlord or employee of a management company who doesn't require a background or credit rating might seem easygoing. You do not have to bother with paperwork or cover the fees for these tests? What a dream! However, a laissez-faire landlord might just not care about the condition of the property or having a responsible tenant live there.
A fantastic landlord always wants to get qualified tenants in place, so be careful if you find an apartment and the landlord is quick to ask for money with no background check.
Requesting a large hunk of cash upfront
But if landlords request over the standard amount upfront, then they might be trying to scam you.
Upfront fees vary throughout the nation, and local laws dictate how much landlords can request. Thus doing a simple Google search to see what's normal in your town can save you a lot of money.
Rushed or pristine property showings
If the agent or landlord appears to be trying to rush you through the home, there is usually a reason.
Itt could be a terror of a neighbor, with loudly dogs along with a horrible temper you just never know.
So to find a crystal clear picture of this property--and also the persistent noises about it--take some time to visit the neighborhood at various hours of the day.
Playing phone tag with the property manager
Is it challenging to accomplish a showing with the landlord or property manager? Think about how hard it will be to reach them if you really live there and have a repair or a query about your rent. It may look like a minor inconvenience while looking for a rental, but how they conduct business prior to signing a lease is generally a sign of how they'll treat you after you are officially a renter.
Conclusion
At Bermont Realty we do our best to maintain a high level of customer service. We are quick to act and available most times of the day to assist your needs be it an emergency repair or a question. List your property for rent or finding a property to rent in St. Albert, Mornville and the surrounding area we are here to serve you better.