Do you want to have a great renting experience? While you
can't control the actions of others, you can do your own part to contribute to
having a good relationship with your landlord and neighbors. How can you be a
good tenant and why put in the effort? Here are five things any renter can do
that won't cost anything extra.
1. Understand Your Lease
The rental lease is long and boring, and it's often filled
with legal jargon. But it's also one important key to maintaining a good
relationship with both your neighbors and your landlord. This is because you
then know the ground rules you must follow and can avoid creating unnecessary
conflict. In addition, you'll understand your own rights better and can
advocate for yourself in a calm and logical manner.
Read your lease before signing it. Ask questions about
anything that seems unclear. Even if you're in a hurry to sign, this is the
most important step in ensuring this is a good fit for you and you can comply
with what will be asked of you.
2. Rent What You Can Afford
When shopping for a new rental home, avoid stretching your
budget too far. Honestly analyze your budget and stick to it as you tour
available inventory in your area.
Why does this matter to your landlord? If you have trouble
putting together the rent money each month, you may end up with late payments
or even missed payments. Landlords appreciate a tenant who reliably pays their
rent on time and they are more likely to respond in timely ways when that
tenant needs something. It also earns you a better reference for the
future.
3. Report Maintenance Concerns
Spot a leak under the sink? Outlet not working? Mysterious
spot forming on the ceiling? Report possible maintenance and repair issues
promptly and through the right channels.
You're the first line of defense for the rental home, which
is a long-term investment and responsibility of the property owner. So be their
eyes and ears when it comes to caring for the rental. The longer a small
problem goes unaddressed, the more likely it is to turn into a big one.
4. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Being friendly with neighbors makes you a better tenant in
several ways. First, it helps you and the neighbors avoid conflict among
yourselves. When you're on a first-name basis and can speak with one another in
a friendly way, you prevent things from escalating to the landlord.
You can also help look after the community and your
neighbors by being familiar with what's going on around you. This doesn't
require you to be nosy, but casual awareness and openness with your fellow
tenants are useful. It lets you spot problems that may need the landlord's
attention, help new tenants learn their way around, and prevent crime.
5. Keep Things Tidy
Keep your rental house or apartment neat and tidy as much
as possible. This makes the unit and the rental community as a whole look nicer
and more reputable, helping the landlord attract other good-quality tenants.
Neatness also helps everyone notice potential repair and maintenance issues.
And it boosts safety, as it prevents fire hazards and obstacles which could
cause slip-and-fall accidents.
Where to Start
By being a good tenant, you make your own life easier and
help those around you at the same time. At Montgomery Realtors, we want to work
with great tenants like you. Stop by and tour our apartment communities or view
available houses for rent in the area. You're sure to find a great new home and
a community you'll be proud to join. Call or visit today.
