5) Renting on your own without a specialist
What to check for in Property ViewingWhen you have decided on properties that you like, you or your agent can arrange a viewing of the property. Make the most of this opportunity by:
• Checking how well the property has been maintained - look at windows, drainage etc
• Note how much storage space there is.
• Finding out which furnishings will be in the property when you move in.
• Running the taps, shower and flushing the toilet. Do they all work? Ask to be shown that the air conditioning and hot water works - and that windows open
• For flats, asking if you have your own secure post box. How clean are common areas - how often are they cleaned and by whom? How are any common grounds maintained? If there is a vehicle space, what's parked in it now - if there is a garbage heap, ask when it will be cleared
• Finding out how close the transport links are - is it an easy commute to work or school and how close are other amenities, shops, etc?
• Visiting at different times to establish how safe/quiet the area is
• Asking if road works are planned or new constructions are going up nearby - this will add to noise
• Talking to existing tenants (if they are still there) and neighbours. Ask them what it's like to live there.
• Ask tenants what the landlord is like
• If the landlord will be looking after the management, asking if you can meet him.
Financial aspects of Renting
• What bills (if any e.g society maintenance, Car park, Property Tax) are included in the rent?
• How much is the deposit and what is the rent review period & escalation clause?
• Will there be a fixed term in the rental and, if so, for how long? Is the term extendable after the fixed term has ended?
• How many people have viewed it already and how long has it been on the market for? If there is lots of property available to rent locally, you may be able to negotiate the rent down.
Lease Rental agreement Registration
All residential and commercial leases need to be registered at the nearest Maharashtra Office of Stamp & Registration. This is a legal requirement and should be completed within 120 days of signing the lease rental. The onus is on the landlord to ensure this procedure is completed, however for the tenant a non-registered lease means that after 3 months they have no legal status in the rental property!
Move-in & Move out days
It is unusual to hear from someone who didn't have a stressful time moving in & moving out of rented accommodation but being organised is the trick to minimise your stress levels during this time.
Moving-in Checklist
• Redirect post well beforehand. Prepare a standard letter to notify banks and anyone else who needs to know what your new address is
• Use a good movers firm - seek recommendations from friends.
• Try to do movements on Saturdays or Sundays in the afternoon. These are less traffic days/ time.
• Have the No Objection Certificate in hand before moving, society security is well within his rights to stop you from entering if the NOC is not there.
• Check goods lift availability at the complex / operation timing where you are moving into
• If you are moving into an unfurnished apartment, get the beds ready as a priority, as you may want to crash. Everything else can wait until tomorrow
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