How to be a great tenant

Finding a great spot to rent is often difficult. Identifying the perfect rental with an understanding landlord is even more important. When you do find this duo it would be in your best interest to be the ideal tenant.

Here's how to become a sought-after tenant:

Be prepared
To save time for both you and the landlord or managing agent have a clear understanding of what you and your family would like out of a home. It makes life easier when you are viewing a potential home. Create a list of the important things the home should have. For instance, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need, parking spaces, a pet-friendly property, security, and proximity to amenities. Do not be too shy to ask all the important questions when viewing the property. Bear in mind, the agent or landlord have the right to do a credit check on you. Having a good credit record is a major characteristic of being a good tenant.

Pay your rent on time
Once you have signed the lease, make sure that the rental and all other costs are paid on time. Your landlord relies on your regular rent payments to take care of their expenses. Most likely, they may still be paying the bond for that home you live in. Paying your rent on time also allows you to build a good relationship with your landlord. Think about it, if you have any issues your landlord will see to them as soon as possible if you are a good tenant. Moreover, any landlord does not want to lose a good tenant and when it's time for an annual increase, he/she may be prepared to negotiate a lower increase rather than lose a dependable tenant.

Take care of the property as if it was your own
Although you do not own the property it should not stop you from treating it as your own. Remember, you have paid a security deposit and should you break something it can be taken out from that amount. Cleaning the property, ensuring that the garden is maintained, and just making sure that the property is in a pleasant condition will make your life easier and the landlord happy. Wear and tear are normal, but you can prevent major property damage. You can do small repairs yourself and when big repairs are required the landlord will have no issues in getting them done. Be courteous and allow the landlord ample time to complete the task - do not be demanding. A good relationship with the landlord further builds for a great recommendation if you decide to move in the future.

Follow the lease terms
A good tenant will abide by the rules stipulated in a rental lease. Standard leases forbid any illegal activity on the property. It also prohibits behavior that threatens the safety of the community. Other rules may not allow pets on the property or loud parties. This often happens if the property is in a complex, while landlords of freestanding homes are generally more accommodating. Body corporates will have their own set of rules that renters have to abide by. Lease violations can constitute legitimate grounds for an eviction. In addition to following the lease terms, being a good neighbour also contributes to being a good tenant. You do not want the neighbours to complain to your landlord about you.

Being a sought-after tenant has the ability to secure lower rents, better lease terms, more housing security, and strong rental references when the time comes to move. If you are a great tenant in the market for a rental property, contact Knight Frank Properties today.