More and more tenants are finding themselves in a position where they cannot inspect a property before making an application.People are moving towns (often interstate) and some people are simply working long hours and are unable to make time.But what are the risks associated with applying for a property before you look at it?
First, take a moment to think about the things that could be wrong with the property:
It may be unclean
It may be missing essential items such as blinds or curtains
The agent may have used old photos in the advertising when the property looks its best, and the property may have had some wear and tear since the photos were taken
It may be located near something undesirable for example a petrol station or some undesirable neighbours
The property may not be big enough for your requirements
This list goes on.There are many agents who refuse to rent to tenants “site unseen” because when tenants do not inspect the property first it is common for them to have issues or disputes with the landlord about what is acceptable after they move in.
Some offices will accept a tenant without an inspection, however get the tenant to agree on their rental application to “take the property how it is”.When the tenant has signed off on this condition they are waiving their rights to request some of the above problems to be rectified.For example, if you move in to the property and there are no blinds or curtains, you have accepted the property how it is and cannot expect the landlord to agree to install these items.
So in summary, it is always best to inspect a property before you apply for it.Perhaps if you are not able to you might have a family member or a friend that can do this on your behalf.If you are in a situation where you cannot do either of these, you will need to ask the agent a lot of questions to avoid moving in to a house that you are not happy with.
Do you know what you are renting?
More and more tenants are finding themselves in a position where they cannot inspect a property before making an application. People are moving towns (often interstate) and some people are simply working long hours and are unable to make time. But what are the risks associated with applying for a property before you look at it?
First, take a moment to think about the things that could be wrong with the property:
This list goes on. There are many agents who refuse to rent to tenants “site unseen” because when tenants do not inspect the property first it is common for them to have issues or disputes with the landlord about what is acceptable after they move in.
Some offices will accept a tenant without an inspection, however get the tenant to agree on their rental application to “take the property how it is”. When the tenant has signed off on this condition they are waiving their rights to request some of the above problems to be rectified. For example, if you move in to the property and there are no blinds or curtains, you have accepted the property how it is and cannot expect the landlord to agree to install these items.
So in summary, it is always best to inspect a property before you apply for it. Perhaps if you are not able to you might have a family member or a friend that can do this on your behalf. If you are in a situation where you cannot do either of these, you will need to ask the agent a lot of questions to avoid moving in to a house that you are not happy with.