Renting in Atlanta may not be as glamorous as outright buying your home, but it's often a great solution for people who can't afford a down payment or who want the flexibility to move after a few years.
That's why when choosing a home to rent, you'll want to go through the process as carefully as if you were buying a property.
After all, you (and perhaps your family) will be living there for some time, so you want your rental to be as safe, comfortable, and convenient as possible.
To get you started on the right foot, here are five factors to consider when choosing a home to rent:
1. Location, Location, Location
This may sound like a cliché, but it's true for a reason: where you live matters. For instance, the location of your rental can mean the difference between a stressful commute and being able to rest and relax after a long day at work.
Atlanta, in particular, has a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. For instance, you might want to live in an exciting, lively neighborhood like Midtown or Inman Park. Or, you might prefer a calmer, more suburban area like Sandy Springs or Decatur.
Your lifestyle will also determine the ideal location for your rental. If you have young children, for example, you might want to be in a school district with a good reputation.
Single and want to be social? A condo in a high-rise near nightlife and restaurants might be more your speed.
Make sure you factor in your pets as well. Some neighborhoods in Atlanta are pet-friendlier than others, with amenities like dog parks, walkable side walks, nearby groomers and vet clinics, etc.
The location of your rental will impact all of these, so it's important to choose carefully.
2. The Right Size
Another important factor to consider when choosing a rental is its size. After all, you'll want to make sure that your furniture (and everything else) will actually fit in the space.
To get an idea of the right size for your needs, measure your current furniture and belongings, or take photos of them so you can refer back to them later.
Then, use these dimensions (or photos) as a guide when looking at potential rentals. This way, you can get a sense of whether or not your things – and anything else you want to bring in – will fit in it.
3. The Condition of the Rental Property
When you're choosing a rental, it's important to inspect the property carefully to ensure that it's in good condition.
After all, you don't want to move into a rental only to find out that there are serious issues, like mold or water damage, when you're already stuck there for a year or more.
Some things you'll want to look for when inspecting a rental include:
- Cracks in the walls or ceilings
- Water stains
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Broken fixtures
- Evidence of insects or rodents
If you see any of these red flags, be sure to ask the landlord about them and whether or not they'll be addressed before you move in.
4. The Total Cost of Rent and Utilities
Of course, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a rental is how much it will cost you each month.
In addition to rent, you'll also need to factor in the cost of utilities, like electricity, gas, water, and trash service.
Some landlords include utilities in the cost of rent, while others do not, so be sure to ask about this before making a decision.
5. The Rental Lease Terms
Finally, when choosing a home to rent, you'll want to carefully review the lease agreement before signing anything.
This document will outline your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, as well as the landlord's.
Some things you'll want to pay attention to in the lease include:
- The length of the lease agreement (e.g., one year, two years)
- How much notice you'll need to give before moving out
- Whether or not subletting is allowed
- The amount of your security deposit
The details in the lease agreement can have a big impact on your experience as a tenant, so be sure to read it carefully before signing.
If you're not confident about finding the perfect rental on your own, that's where an
Atlanta property management company comes in.
These professionals specialize in helping tenants find the right rental for their needs and can even handle the leasing process on your behalf.
The best Atlanta property management companies already have a network of approved rentals in the city, so they can save you a lot of time and effort in your search.
Most importantly, they can help you avoid the countless pitfalls that come with renting in Atlanta while getting the most fair deal and terms possible for your new rental home.
