Rental Property Viewing Checklist

You know where you want to live and you’ve found a few properties worthy of an inspection, but now what do you look for? It can be daunting to take the first step in finding a rental property. The key is to be organised. After all, this could be your home for quite some time.

While you know the look and feel of a home that you’re after, there are also some key points to note that will ensure those practical aspects don’t get overlooked in the rush of an open home.

Choosing the right home for you can be very personal and take a lot longer than you think. We’ve compiled a list of items to think about when you inspect your next property.

Lists

Lists keep everyone organised, right? We suggest creating two different lists when it comes to finding the right home for you. A list of “must-haves” and a list of “like-to-haves”. Providing you can tick off everything on your “must-have” list, then anything else on the other list is a bonus!

Security

You should check there is the appropriate amount of security for your needs. Are there deadlocks and window locks? Is there secure car parking? If it’s in a complex, is the building secure with resident-only access?

Storage

This may not be a deal-breaker for some. But for others, it might be. Is there enough internal and external storage space? Is there a lock-up garage or shed? Are there built in robes or extra linen cupboards? 

Amenities

Whether you end up renting at one of Rent Central’s complexes around Brisbane or a free standing house, you want to know what amenities are available to you. Does it have a pool? Does the complex have a gym?

Measure up

The fridge! Does the fridge fit? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve moved into a new home only to realise the fridge doesn’t fit there, ah! Not only the fridge, but does the bed fit giving you enough space for the bedside tables etc? Be sure to take a measuring tape with you to your next inspection.

Other factors

There are also some other factors to keep in mind. Do you need a pet friendly home? If you’re looking at an apartment, what’s the water and electricity billing situation? Is your potential new home in close proximity to the things you need like work, schools, shops etc?

If in doubt about anything, ask the property manager. Avoid making assumptions which may lead to you not being completely satisfied with your decision.

So, what are you waiting for…. Start searching your next dream home right here…. rentcentralbrisbane.com.au 

What makes a good neighbourhood GREAT?

You’ve seen the movies where the gardens and pathways are immaculately manicured, kids playing safely in the street, that man who brings your rubbish bin in each week and, of course, that friendly neighbour who delivers freshly baked treats. Imagine that in your street, huh?

Alas, the perfect neighbourhood only exists in the movies. But having a great neighbourhood is certainly not out of the question!

When choosing where to live, it’s important to find the ideal lifestyle match. Is there public transport close by? Is it within the school catchment area? Are there restaurants and bars within walking distance? Close to work? Is the place secure?

We’ve put together some top tips that we think make a good neighbourhood great:

• Location – close to the things that matter to us. It may be close to work, close to public transport or close to shopping centres
• Outdoor spaces – facilities (pool, gym etc), green spaces and outdoor areas to relax.

• Security – a secure home where your loved ones and belongings are safe.
• Community – a sense of community where the neighbours are friendly and there are local events happening.
• Comfort – storage space, open plan living, nice views and good entertaining spaces.
• Onsite management - Jay Walljasper, author of The Great Neighbourhood Book by the Project for Public Spaces says “Eighty percent of the success of any good place is due to how well it is managed after the project is done.” Amen to that! Our onsite managers are testament to this and ensure our good communities are made even greater once the project is completed.

And of course, great people form the basis of an even better place to live. Given we’re onsite managers at seven complexes across Brisbane, we work towards a healthy community and neighbourhood that we live in.

We get that the place we live in has a fundamental impact on our well-being, therefore at Rent Central, we pride ourselves on managing complexes that are on-point with characteristics of a great neighbourhood. Ideal location, open outdoor spaces, sense of security and community and proximity to Brisbane’s best is what makes our complexes popular choices for renting.

What makes your neighbourhood great?