How to Find a Rental: Practical Advice
Finding a rental can be challenging, but with preparation and strategy, you can improve your chances of securing the right place. Here’s how:
1. Define Your Target Area
Start by determining where you want to live. Consider your priorities, such as:
Proximity to schools (e.g., within a specific school boundary).
Distance to major landmarks, like Oak Hills Road and the I-15.
Use tools like Zillow to draw search boundaries and filter by location.
2. Set Your Budget
Establish your maximum price and filter listings accordingly.
Be prepared to compromise if necessary. For example, if you’re looking for a 4-bedroom rental but only 3-bedroom options fit your budget, decide whether to compromise on size or expand your search area.
3. Be Proactive
Don’t wait for opportunities—present yourself as a reliable, proactive tenant:
Deliver your rental résumé to rental agents and inquire about available properties.
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Before applying, ask:
Is there someone qualified ahead of me?
Based on the information I provided, am I qualified for this rental?
4. Create a Rental Résumé
Treat your rental search like a job hunt. Prepare a professional résumé for landlords that includes:
Rental History: List previous addresses and how long you lived at each.
Income Information: Provide pay stubs, proof of income, or details of government assistance programs, if applicable.
Credit Report: Include a free annual credit report (available through major credit bureaus).
References: Obtain letters of recommendation from past landlords or employers, if possible.
5. Addressing Pets
If you have pets, finding a rental may require extra steps. Here’s how to make your application stand out:
Be Honest: Always disclose your pets upfront to avoid complications later.
Create a Pet Résumé: Include details such as your pet’s age, breed, size, and behavior. Mention if they’re spayed/neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, and house-trained.
Provide References: If possible, get a letter from a previous landlord confirming your pet’s good behavior.
Offer a Pet Deposit: Show you’re responsible by being prepared to pay a pet deposit or pet rent, if required.
Seek Pet-Friendly Listings: Use search filters to find rentals that explicitly allow pets. Platforms like Zillow and Apartments.com often have pet-friendly filters.
Being transparent and prepared with pet documentation can help landlords feel more confident in renting to you.
6. Avoid Wasting Money on Application Fees
Before paying for credit checks or application fees:
Verify that no one ahead of you has already qualified for the property.
Confirm that you meet the property’s minimum requirements.
7. Stay Organized
Compile all necessary documents for every adult in your household, including:
Income verification.
Credit reports.
References.
Being organized and prepared helps you stand out as a dependable tenant.
Hope all this helps!
I'm Karen Sanchez, REALTOR
Marketing your house like no one else will.
📞 760-684-0250
📧 karen@karensoldit.net
Licensed in California and Texas. Serving the Victor Valley, South Bay, other SoCal areas by request, and the Hill Country of Texas.
Karen L. Sanchez, Broker
Reputable Realty
CA License #01804752
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Don Johnson Realtors
New Braunfels, TX
📧 karensoldit@yahoo.com
📞 Cell: 760-684-0250 | Office: 830-624-8272
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