As a DFW Realtor, I help buyers, sellers, and renters. Renting can be tricky, because renters typically don’t get an inspection on the home. Inspections can cost $500 or more, and most renters don’t want to spend the money, and often landlords won’t allow it, or put you off until they get a renter who doesn’t want an inspection. Plus, the lease should cover the renter should repairs be needed - right?
Not always… the landlord may not always make the repairs in a timely manner, or at all.
Here’s my advice when looking at rental property:
• Test EVERY faucet, toilet, and drain - could indicate plumbing problems.
• Look for fresh paint patches on ceilings or baseboards- can hide water and mold stains.
• Check under sinks and around windows - Musty smells, warped wood, or bubbling paint are red flags.
• Turn on the AC and heat - however, could be difficult to ascertain whether they are working due to outside temperature.
• If electric and water are turned off, and the landlord won’t turn them on, move on.
• Ask how maintenance requests are handled - this is super important. If the listing agent and/or landlord can’t answer you sufficiently, or gets frustrated with your questions, move on.
• Read reviews of the property management company - however, with individually owned properties, you may not find any info on the landlord or management company.
• Check cell service and internet options inside the unit.
• Ask neighbors and previous tenant if at all possible - other tenants will usually tell you the truth about bugs, noise, flooding, or bad management.
• Document EVERYTHING before move-in - take videos and photos of every wall, floor, appliance, and existing damage. Email it to yourself and the landlord immediately.
