Finding the right rental here in Central New Jersey can be a difficult task. In areas such as Somerset, Middlesex, and Union counties, there seems to be higher demand for rental properties and not enough supply.
These are steps to help you get into your desired rental property faster.
Renting a house requires many of the same aspects as renting an apartment or condo. They are DECENT CREDT, A JOB, and POSITIVE REFERENCES. Homeowners who rent are looking for tenants who care for the property and their investments as if it were their own. Simply by being able to meet these requirements as well as presenting yourself well, you should have no issues obtaining the best property or home rental.
For best results, follow these steps:
- Present a credit report that is clear of collections, large amounts of debt and late payments. Also, do your best to avoid foreclosures, judgments, and bankruptcy. A landlord looks for a tenant who shows responsibility with their own financial obligations, since the home is an asset under the landlord’s name and credit. If there are past problems or deficiencies on the report, take a few months to clean up those before entering the rental market, or come up with some good explanations.
- Work at a job that produces enough income to support the house rent. Many financial planners and housing experts advise people to spend no more than 30 percent of their gross income on rent. That DOES NOT count utilities. This can be tough in a more expensive rental market, the right amount of income reassures a property owner that the rent will be easy to handle.
- Present a positive rental history from former building owners/property management referencing your rental background, including any late payments, disputes, or evictions. If you have rented from smaller property owners who do not report this information, the prospective landlord may want a positive letter of reference. If possible, have some thoughtful words ready from a boss or roommate who can vouch for your character.
- Convey all who will be residing in the home when viewing. A landlord wants to see and know exactly who will be living in the house, including any pets. There is a chance you may be evicted because of too many tenants, or for having tenants who are not on the lease. In order to avoid future problems, it is better to bring everyone out to see the house and meet the landlord in person.
- Have your checkbook ready. The landlord or realtor may charge a small fee for a credit check and background check You should get this done immediately. This is also useful in case the house is in high demand, because you can leave a check as a good-faith deposit to secure the property.
If you are looking to rent, my area of expertise is Bridgewater, Bedminster, Branchburg, as well as all of Middlesex and Union Counties here in Central New Jersey. Feel free to contact me at dawn@dawnruete.com or 908-930-2408.