Are you looking for a new rental property in Perth? With such a wide range of housing available in such a vast area, the choices can be daunting. Add to that the intricacies of property law, and finding the right property seems impossible.
Renting a property is now easier than you think, with many laws in place to protect the tenant and landlord. Below is our must-know guide to private rentals in Perth.
SETTING A BUDGET FOR private RENTALS in perth
The first decision you need to make is how much you can afford and want to spend on a rental property. Perth has many options, from inner-city apartments to suburban homes. Each private rental in Perth will incur different rent costs.
When deciding on a budget, factor in all bills and overhead costs you’ll have to pay on top of your monthly rent. As a guide figure, all your bills including rent should amount to no more than a third of your monthly income.
In addition to this, you will have to pay a large sum in upfront costs. The rent will have to be paid two weeks in advance and you may get asked to pay an option fee while the landlord checks your references. In addition, a security bond is required which usually equates to four weeks rent, plus a pet bond should you have animals with you.
CHOOSING A PROPERTY
The first factor that determines your property choice is obviously the location. You should begin by looking at transport links, such as access to roads and public transport if required. You need a home that will make it easy for you to reach your place of work.
Next, look at other local amenities. If you have children, is it close to schools? Are the necessary supermarkets and shops close by.
Finally, decide if you feel safe in the area. Ensure the neighbours are friendly, and that your family isn’t too far away.
FINDING PRIVATE RENTALs in perth
Once you know the area you want to live in, you can start looking. The first port of call is to look online. There are a number of property websites that make the task much easier. Often you can view all properties in an area with just the click of a button.
If you are still struggling, then find an agent to help you. They should be able to provide advice, and may even know great rental opportunities before they come on the market. If you find a place you like on your own, you will need to contact that property agent regardless to get the process moving.
TENANCY AGREEMENTS
Once you’ve found a property or suburb, you’re required to select a fixed-term or periodic tenancy. Both have advantages and disadvantages, and this comes down to your needs as a tenant. Either way, you will have to sign a tenancy agreement.
The purpose of this is to set out the conditions in which the property shall be rented. It sets boundaries and legal expectations, and can settle disputes should they arise later. When signing a tenancy agreement, you should ensure you understand all areas of the document and what you are signing.
Basic requirements in a tenancy agreement include the property address, the name and details of both the tenant to be and landlord, the rent requirements with start and end dates. Key residential laws and any other special agreements will also be included.
Safeguard yourself and make sure that the agreement has information surrounding tenant rights. At the least, you should ask for specific details on how repairs will be done and how fast, with a timescale placed in the contract. In the end, you should receive a copy of the signed agreement.
INSPECTIONS
If the property owner wants to enter the property once the agreement has begun, they must give you adequate notice for an inspection. Under Perth rentals law, disregarding repairs and maintenance, no more than four routine inspections are allowed in a year. Any notice they give you must be served no less than seven days in advance.
One time this rule does not apply is if the landlord begins to advertise the property toward the end of your tenancy. No more than 21 days in advance, they may bring prospective clients around. You must still be given reasonable written notice.
ENDING A TENANCY
If you decide to end a tenancy before the end of the agreement, you must do it by mutual consent with the owner. If you give them adequate notice (the amount of time should be in your initial agreement) then most owners will allow you to move out. However, if this has not been stated in the tenancy agreement then you may remain liable for your tenancy until a new occupant is found.
This is not a desirable situation, as you may have to pay the costs associated with it such as rent, bills and upkeep. Alternatively, the owner may ask you to pay costs related to their loss of earnings or ask you to pay for advertising the property. They may not ask you for compensation related to anything done on their part, such as delays.
FIND A private rental in perth
Essentially, when looking for any private rentals in Perth, make sure it feels like home. With so many options available, one is bound to suit. If it does not feel right, then go for something else or contact a specialist to find one that suits your needs.
The first place you should visit is Vivid Property Perth. We connect people with their ideal property, either through buying or renting. Contact us now, and let us find you the home of your dreams!
