Expert Tips for Moving to a New Rental Property

Let’s face it moving to a rental property is often a cumbersome and undesirable process, this article will provide tips to make the moving process as smooth as possible.

What to look for

Think about what you are looking for from a rental property, perhaps write down the ‘must-haves’ so you can easily filter out unsuitable properties without having to view them.
For example, if you are co-tenants, do you each need your own bathroom or can you share?
You may also want to consider the proximity to shopping centres, Gyms transport, the local hospital and medical centre.

 

Considerations when inspecting the property

How much space is there in the new property? Will it fit all your required furniture? It’s a good idea to bring a measuring tape with you to the property inspection to make sure everything will fit.

Ask for permission to open and close windows and flyscreens and check the water pressure. This is so you know what to expect if there are any issues. In addition, you may want to ask about whether you can hang picture frames, whether the building allows pets etc.. 

In older buildings it’s important to know where the electrical box is in case of any outages – so ask where this is if you can’t locate it.

Check ceilings and walls for any visible signs of mould as this can be difficult to treat.

Look closely at the floors, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen for any sign of cockroach activity. If there are signs, you may wish to discuss the possibility of getting pest control prior to moving into the property or look elsewhere.

Other things you may wish to check:

• Door hinges when you open and close doors
• Blinds and Curtains are smooth to operate
• Wardrobe sliding doors & balcony doors 
• Appliances are operable
• Turn lights on to understand the ambience of each room

Preparing for the move

1. Making Early Preparations

You may wish to start getting organised early so that you don’t have too much to do on moving day.

This might involve:

• Starting your packing sooner
• Decluttering & Selling any unwanted items, or donating to charity
• Cleaning the property
• Update your address

If you are moving to a more convenient location, this may involve a more compact living style. In this instance, you may want to only bring what you really need in the new place.

On the other hand, if you are moving to a bigger place, don’t be challenged by space. 
Having more room or too much room can make the place feel empty, but you’ll be surprised how quickly space gets filled up!

2. Speak to The Building Manager

If you are moving to an apartment block, talk to the building manager about when to move in. Some apartment blocks have strict times for moving in, so check with the building manager.
The building manager may need to put down coverings in the lift to protect it from furniture and heavy boxes

Where you are moving to an apartment block in a high-density area, it may not be a good idea to move on a Saturday. This is because there may be lots of residents using the lifts as well as people visiting for open homes. In addition, the traffic may be worse on the weekend which could end up costing you more, so take this into consideration.

3. Setting up Utilities & Internet Connection

Ask about setting up any connections when moving eg: NBN, electricity etc.. 

Get an understanding of where the connection points are eg: water, electricity, gas. Providers may ask for this information when you set up the new connection.

What to do once your move is complete

• Go through the condition report, document any faults as well as wear and tear and take lots of photos to back up your findings.
• Ask the agent who their ‘go-to’ tradesmen are, in case you have an emergency eg: local plumber, and ask if you can have their number.
• Unpack and enjoy your new abode.

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Guest author: Alan Yeung from Location Property Group