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How to rent a flat: advice for first timers

How to rent a flat advice for first timers - How to rent a flat: advice for first timers

Moving out of your parents’ house, transferring for work, finding a new place after a separation, or whatever the reason may be, finding a home that fits your tastes and needs isn’t always easy; especially if it’s your first time. It’s logical for you to have many questions about how to rent a flat, but everything will be much easier if you follow some basic tips.

How to rent a flat

If you follow these 6 tips, the process of renting a flat for the first time will be much easier:

1. Set a budget

This is the first essential requirement before starting a search. Although it’s a ballpark figure, it’s best not to spend more than 30% of your income on rent. You have to take into account that in addition to that expense, there will be many others: utilities, daily expenses, and more. Also, it’s a good idea to set aside a small percentage for savings.

2. Determine your needs

It’s necessary to decide on an area where you want to live, the type of home you prefer, the number of rooms you need, or whether pets are allowed. It’s a good idea to decide on these manners beforehand to facilitate the search for a rental flat.

3. Register on real estate websites

This is the most comfortable way to search. At Spainhouses, it’s very easy to register on the homepage. And thanks to search filters, you can generate a list of homes in seconds and save those you like best. What's more, you can receive notifications when a flat that meets your criteria appears.

4. Visit the homes

Once you’ve made a selection, it’s a good idea to visit each property. This allows you to see the true state of the flat and of the furniture, its distribution, and even the views.

Also, when possible, it’s a good idea to talk with a neighbour. This way, you can find out if there are noisy neighbours, if the neighbourhood has good services, if it’s easy to park, and much more.

5. The contract and the deposit

When you rent an apartment for the first time, these aspects can cause confusion. It’s important not to rush through this. Before signing (the contract must always be in writing), you have to review it thoroughly. If you have any questions, they must be answered first, and in the case of clauses that are considered abusive, you’ll have to negotiate.

Furthermore, Spain's Urban Rental Law makes a one-month deposit obligatory. You must require the landlord to deposit it with the autonomous community's corresponding authority. Why should you do this? For security, because it is the law, and because it is an essential requirement for deducting rent from your yearly taxes.

6. Utilities and inventory

Another issue that we have to consider when we think about renting a flat is to register for utilities and carrying out an inventory. What’s most common is for basic utilities (water, electricity, gas) to be paid by the renter, so it’s always a good idea to negotiate with the companies to get the best deals. The community fees, however, tend to be paid by the landlord.

In terms of the inventory, it’s best to agree upon this with the property owner, specifying everything in the flat and its condition: doors, windows, furniture, appliances, etc. This way you can avoid complaints about damage that you aren’t responsible for.

When it comes to renting a flat, these are basic issues that have to be taken into account to facilitate the process and make a good choice.

Where would you like to live? Whatever type of flat you’re looking for or the area you prefer, Spainhouses can help you. Find the home of your dreams faster than you think with our search engine and start enjoying your new life.

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