Thinking about renting? Then here is what you need to know:
Step 1: Find a Realtor!
This is your first and most important step. Engaging with an experienced and knowledgeable real estate agent can make what is often and onerous process into a smooth one.
Step 2: Wait until its time.
Most landlords will not wait more than 30 days for you to pay your first months rent. And most good rentals are leased in 30 days or less, so to save everyone time and money its best to go and tour when you are in the 30 day or less timeframe to making a decision.
Step 3: But don’t wait too long.
If you like a home, don’t wait too long since others are bound to like it as well. Call your realtor to setup a tour asap.
Step 4: Get prepared:
All the below items will come into play when potential landlords look at your file:
- Information About Brokerage Services – Please review sign and return.
- Lease Application – All occupants 18 and over must complete the application.
- Send a Copy of your Drivers License.
- Enter into a Buyer/Tenant Representation Agreement.
After your viewing if you wish to apply for the home the following will be required.
- All applicants 18 and over will submit a application fee
- each. Fees depend on each landlord requirements. A cashiers check or money order will be required These fees are non-refundable.
- Residential Lease
- Pet Application
Typically, a landlord will submit your application to a service for a comprehensive background check which includes:
- Rental History.
- Criminal Background Check.
- Credit Report
- No Drug or Violent Crime convictions.
- No Evictions from your last rental
- Verification of income
- Verification of employment
It would be helpful if you supply:
- A rental reference letter from you current or previous landlord.
- Copies of your last two pay stubs
- Copies of your last bank statement
- Copy of your drivers license.
- Copy of your credit report. Or a copy of your report from mysmartmove.com
Also you should drive by each home prior to your tour. I have found that most people can weed out subdivisions and areas by a quick drive by.
Remember, Step 1 is the most important one and should you not have a realtor in mind, please contact me on Facebook or by phone at 281.798.4599.
You might want to also have a look at this video where Shannon Register and I talk in depth about the Houston rental market.
Enjoy!
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In today’s competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other home buyers to the hottest new homes for sale in Houston with my New Listings Notification Service.
If you own real estate that you’re thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation.
Whether you are buying or selling a home hire someone like me, who will earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I’d be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Houston, please contact me as I am more than willing to help.
I service all areas of the Houston Metro Area. I work with you for commercial or residential real estate. Do you need to sell your home? If you are looking for land, homes, townhomes, condo’s, loft’s or an apartment complex, or an experienced real estate agent this is the place.
While you are here, feel free to have a look a couple of my current listings below.
So until then, should you, your family, or your colleagues need a realtor please don’t hesitate to contact me via Facebook or by phone at 281.798.4599.
@TheTexasBroker (a.k.a Allen Keith Hebert)
