Top tips for first time renters

When it comes to branching out and moving away from the family home, it’s not uncommon to feel a little anxious. We’ve all been there. The thought of taking that leap of faith and everything that’s associated with living on your own or with a partner/friends can often be overwhelming. But, with great freedom comes great responsibility, and it’s useful to be ‘in the know’ when you’re trying to go it alone.

Here at Ascend, our number one goal is to keep our tenants happy and content in their new abode, so we’ve come up with some handy tips to help you first timers and show you that taking that jump into the big bad world isn’t so scary after all.

1.     Pick your perfect rental property

Sometimes with renting, finding your ideal home is half the battle. Be sure you have a clear budget in mind before you start your search and be realistic about what sort of place you can afford. Although we’d all love that penthouse apartment with a swimming pool and tennis court, being practical will make it all the more easier to find a place that’s right for you. Our friendly team are always on hand with advice and will only arrange viewings when we’re sure the property meets your requirements.

2.     Get to grips with the bills

If you like reaching the end of month with no money in your pocket, you can skip this step. However, for those who like to be organised, this one is a biggie! Getting everything in order is vital if you want to be organised. Let’s face it, nobody likes disorganisation, especially if it leaves us out of pocket when we’ve forgotten to pay the bills.

Firstly, you’ll need to register and set-up your gas, electricity, water, council tax, and any other services you require. We would always recommend popping this into a budget planner as you’ll probably find this to be a great way of keeping track of your finances. That being said, our job is to make your lives easier, and this is why Ascend provide all our tenants with a welcome guide that’s full to the brim of useful contacts, utility suppliers and emergency numbers to help out with those last minute questions that may need answering.   

3.     Check with a fine toothed comb

At the start of your tenancy, it’s likely you’ll have to fill out an inventory to give back to your landlord or us here at Ascend. Completing an inventory works in your favour as nobody wants to get charged for damage they didn’t cause. Be sure to go through everything with a fine toothed comb and check your home from top to bottom to make sure you’ve covered everything. Our team will be on-hand to help you with this should you wish.

4.     Keeping it clean

Although general wear and tear is expected with long term tenants, it’s important to try and keep your new home in the same state as it was from the day you moved in. The more you keep everywhere spick and span, the happier your landlord will be. You may have (or are considering) a furnished rental property, so this rule also applies to furniture. You will be expected to take good care of the contents within the property, so dig out those sofa throws and put coasters out for guests!  

5.     Know what’s what

As a tenant, you will have responsibilities of your own that you will need to keep on top, of so be sure you know what these are by reading through your tenant handbook. Things such as changing light bulbs and replacing batteries in smoke alarms are ultimately the tenant’s responsibility. However, property related issues such as appliance repairs and other broken furniture may not come down to you so always double check with our Ascend team and we’ll be more than happy to help you.

6.     Be safe and enjoy!

Whether you’re renting with a friend, a partner or going solo, having a place to call your own is a big step. There’s nothing we love more than seeing a tenant move into their new home with a huge smile on their face. So remember to relax and make the most of it! 

If you’re thinking of renting for the first time, check out what properties we have available here or speak to a member of our team today.
Manchester - 0161 637 8336
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Monton - 0161 707 7584
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