The time to take off is finally here. A new life is opening up for you. You are looking forward to finding the apartment of your dreams. We will show you how to proceed in order to avoid disappointments.
As soon as you actually start your research, you are confronted with a multitude of questions. If, in addition, you seek advice from friends or family, it only adds confusion to the confusion. The purpose of this article is to list a number of tips that can help you find your first apartment says Piermont Grand
TIP #1: Determine your budget
Before you even start prospecting, it is important to take stock of your financial situation. Experts believe that the amount of rent should not exceed 35 percent of your net income. Remember to take into account monthly fixed or variable costs such as heating, water, gas and electricity. In an apartment building, it is also necessary to provide an amount covering common expenses (maintenance, elevator maintenance, common maintenance, etc…).
You found the pearl rare but the rent is too high? All you have to do now is look for a roommate to share the costs.
TIP #2: Set clear criteria
As the rental offer is extremely wide, only a relevant and targeted research method will allow you to see clearly. So take the time to define the priority criteria that the apartment you are looking for should ideally meet.
How many rooms do you need? Do you want a garden or are you satisfied with a terrace? Is it necessary to provide a place for a washing machine? Do you prefer a quiet or lively neighbourhood? Are there any shops nearby? What is the maximum distance you agree to travel to work? Is the public transport network efficient? Do you want furnished accommodation or not? These are all priority questions that will help you refine your search.
TIP N° 3: Search efficiently
Once your priorities have been defined, you can start your quest. You can do your research perfectly by consulting the many real estate sites online. By subscribing to a newsletter, you will receive targeted information directly to your inbox. To save time, you can use a real estate agent. But this approach obviously involves additional costs.
In order to be able to compare effectively, preferably block a day to visit the apartments that caught your attention.
TIP #4: Avoid the pitfalls
Check the general condition of the apartment. Is there any apparent damage that may require further repair? Pay particular attention to the following parameters:
– Check walls and ceilings for signs of moisture or mould.
– Check that all doors and windows close properly.
– Check the operation of the taps and the water temperature.
– Check the condition of the heating system.
– In order to be able to record them in the inventory of fixtures, note any damage, such as cracked slabs or walls.
TIP #5: First impressions are often the right ones
The first contact with a (future) owner is similar to a job interview. The first impression is often the right one. Not only the one inspired by the apartment, but also the one you feel in relation to the owner and vice versa. To be chosen, the landlord will give preference to the candidate who inspires the most confidence. Be courteous, take care of your appearance and be responsible.
TIP 6: Ask the right questions
Based on your criteria and budget, draw up a list of essential questions to help you make a decision. Here are some examples:
– Questions relating to the overall cost: gather all the useful information (rent, rental guarantee, heating, gas and electricity costs, garage, etc…).
– Environmental quality issues: Who are the other tenants in the building? Is the neighbourhood safe? Are there enough shops? Is it easy to park? Are pets allowed? Is smoking allowed? All these criteria are likely to impact your quality of life.
– Questions relating to fittings and repairs: Are you allowed to make any changes (painting, carpet replacement, changing the lock, etc…)? Which repairs are your responsibility and which ones are the responsibility of the landlord?
TIP #7: Meet current tenants and your future neighbours
If, at the end of the visit, you have any hesitation, meeting the tenants on site or the other inhabitants of the building can be extremely informative.
Are repairs carried out quickly and correctly? Is the atmosphere between the tenants good? Are there any additional costs that the landlord has not mentioned? All this information will be extremely useful to you when you make your decision.
TIP #8: Read the Rent Act
In order to resolve any problems, the relationship between landlords and tenants is governed by law. Regardless of this, it is always possible to add certain clauses to the lease agreement. We are thinking, for example, of an agreement on reparations. Without going into the details of the Rent Act, here are some essential elements:
– The amount of the rent is specified in the contract, which also provides for any increases. In the absence of an adjustment clause in the lease agreement, the landlord is unable to increase the rent for the duration of the lease. If he/she deviates from this rule, you have the right to renounce the apartment without notice.
– The rental guarantee corresponds to a minimum of 2 months’ rent and cannot exceed 3 months.
– If you wish to renounce your lease, the notice period is 3 months. On the other hand, when it is the landlord who terminates the lease, he must respect a notice period of 6 months.
More information about the rental law can be found here.
TIP #9: Do you plan for the future
Imagine what the apartment will look like once you occupy it. Don’t be discouraged by the high rents or the dilapidated nature of some properties. Trust the saying: Whoever seeks finds!
