7 Tips for Finding the Best Rental Home

When you’re moving to a new area, finding the right home is always top priority. It can be overwhelming when you don’t know where or how to look. In real estate, we know that the number one secret is to plan ahead! If you give yourself time, you’ll have a lot less pressure to settle.

Here are a few tips real estate brokers swear by for the best way to find your new rental home:

1. Plan Ahead – Start early in the month. The best rentals are always the first to go. If you’re hoping to find a that perfect rental you need to start searching at least 60 days before you want to move. The rentals with the best price and amenities will go early in the month. The first weekend of the month is the best time to jump, because by the 2^nd and 3^rd weekends everyone else is also looking!
2. Utilize online and offline research – The internet is a magical source of information. You can use various sites to search for the perfect rental and get a sense of pricing for different areas and amenities. But only using online research won’t help you figure out the heartbeat of the area you’re moving. When moving to a new city or state you won’t fully know the transportation access, grocery stores and general vibe of a new area. It might be wise to get some insider intel on this **hint, hint** a local real estate agent can totally help you out!
3. Use a professional – Real estate brokers know the lay of the land inside and out. They can often help you find properties free of charge! A real estate broker that works on rental properties will be a wealth of information. They may have access to apartment buildings in neighborhoods where you want to rent, and a feel for the neighborhoods.
4. Vet your roommates – If you’re considering moving in with random roommates make sure that you have a separate lease. This will be a protection for you, and you’ll only be liable for your portion of the rent. Always get references and do your research on social media, if possible.
5. Don’t be afraid to commit – If you find yourself in a competitive marketplace, you can make yourself stand out by offering a longer lease. This will be helpful to a landlord and they may be more inclined to rent to you.
6. Bigger isn’t always better – If you can move into a smaller building you may end up saving money. Larger apartment complexes with more amenities often have surcharges. If you don’t plan to use these amenities, you will be wasting your money. It’s better to choose a smaller building and pay less.
7. Crowd-Source your Move – We use social media for everything today. Posting that you’re looking for a rental home in a new place could lead you to the perfect connection.

Utilizing these time-saving tips will help you find the best place for your family and reduce the stress of moving. If you would like to talk to us about the best places to live in Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla or the Mat-Su Valley area, we would love to help!