Renting 101

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Renting can involve an agent… it does not have to, BUT I am hoping that this quick list shows the value in working with a Realtor when leasing a property (home or apartment).

SIMPLIFY

A Realtor is beneficial in all processes of renting a property, and I am not trying to blow smoke or promote myself (I mean other than the obvious ha). We start to simplify your process almost immediately. We do this by asking big questions that narrow your search criteria so that you don’t:
A. Fall in love with something you can’t afford
B. Waste your time looking at properties that don’t fit

NAVIGATE HOUSING TYPES

Working with a Realtor allows you to look at different types of properties for rent: apartments, condos and townhomes, or even single family properties. If you are interested in the latter types, you will actually need a licensed agent 99% of the time to help gain entry as a requirement of most management companies.

Realtors can set you up multiple search portals, one for apartments and one for condos for example. These portals connect with our MLS system and sends available properties, that meet your specific criteria, to you as soon as they come on the market. This process is very similar to when you purchase a property!

COORDINATE APPLICATION TYPES

Like the different property types, different management companies require specific information to apply to their rentals. These all differ slightly from each other, nothing major, but it can still take up a lot of mental space while navigating other aspects only you can handle while moving. While we are at it the list below is what is typically asked for by any landlord:
1. one form of government ID
2. at least 2 months of pay stubs
3. any previous rental history
4. an application fee
5. usually some sort of admin fee

MOVING PREP

No matter If you are renting an apartment or another property type your Realtor can help recommend local movers, and if you are new to the area they can help gather links to typical utilities companies. If you are new to the rental game your Realtor will walk you through the typical items that you need to acquire – like renters insurance. Last on my quick list is that they work with the leasing offices on a regular basis and sometimes can negotiate special privileges with the leasing office- like reserving an elevator to move in!

Obviously this is not a comprehensive list, but it should give you some insight into the value that we as Realtors add to your move. All of the items listed above are items that you do not have to think of, and if you are someone like me, taking something off my mental load is AMAZING!

Are you thinking about moving this year? Are you about 3 months from your lease expiring? Well I would would love to discuss how I can help! Even if you are not in DFW, I have a network of Realtors that I can refer you to. I would love to be the piece that helps connect you. Let’s connect!