Finding a Rental Property

This article is part of a series bought to you by ALLSTORAGE SELF STORAGE. For drive-up easy storage at 1/4 city prices; in Warwick contact Harcourts Real Estate Phone 07 4661 3999; Stanthorpe contact Cec Mann & Co. 07 4681 4444; Glen Innes contact Robyn Willis Real Estate. (02_ 67321855. Or visit www.allstorage.com.au. We pride ourselves on providing quality, value-for-money storage.

Finding a Rental Property

With a continuing shortage of housing, there is steady demand for rental properties in the Warwick & Stanthorpe areas with the southern part attracting 3 new resident families per week. There are still retirees seeking a quality lifestyle, temperate climate and friendly village atmosphere. And of course, the lower property prices are an attraction too!
Economic activity is still growing across the region and with more jobs, follows more housing demand. Stanthorpe looks prosperous with the $3M Wine & Tourism College in full operation following a $100,000 injection by Stanthorpe Shire to help with construction. It will have an intake in excess of 250 students this year and given Tourism is Australia’s second largest employer and Education being a solid export earner, this represents a wise investment by the local council. Bricks and mortar infrastructure builds business confidence and I understand there are three sizeable employment-generating developments hovering in the wings. Lets hope they get on with job, before the opportunity is seized by others.
In Warwick, Harcourts Rural Warwick says a 3 bedroom timber house will cost an average of $220 p/wk and there is a shortage. Stanthorpe prices are a little cheaper at $190 according to Cec Mann & Co., but again there isn’t much around.
Here are a few tips on Finding a Rental Property. (There are more tips on Storage and Moving House on our web site www.allstorage.com.au)
1.Know What You Want
2.Be Prepared
3.Get Organised
4.During Inspections
5.Moving Out is Not Cheap

When you find something you like, act quickly. Often, finding a suitable rental property is a matter of first in, best dressed. Don't be too disappointed if your application is unsuccessful: something just as good is probably waiting around the corner.

Know What You Want
• Spend some time researching what the SW region has to offer by way of lifestyle and work opportunities. There are many social Clubs and sporting organisations in this region. A long list is published in the Stanthorpe Informer.
• There is a good highway system in our region, but see how far away from your work, family and friends you will be if you decide to live here.
• It's also worthwhile checking out local facilities including shopping centres, restaurants, wineries, recreational and entertainment complexes, parks, gardens and National Parks.
• When you've decided where you want to live, think about what you need and want in a rental home. How many bedrooms and bathrooms would you like? Do you require heating and air-conditioning? What about a dishwasher?
Be Prepared
• It's important to work out what you can afford, set your limits and stick to them. The average Australian renter spends no more than one-third of his or her monthly salary on rent.
• Get some written references together, and ask some reliable contacts if they'd mind putting in a good word for you.
Get Organised
• Undertaking a lease is a significant responsibility. Make sure it is the standard REIA lease agreement. You'll need to commit to reside there for a specified period of time, and keep the home and garden in good repair.
• Finding a place that you like may take a few weeks. Expect to spend your spare time on inspections. Scan this newspaper and ring local agents. A small “wanted” classified add might help.
• Most agents will require you to leave a refundable deposit in exchange for a key.
During Inspections

When you start inspecting properties, there are a few things to consider:
• Is there any obvious damage or things that need fixing?
• How much storage space is there?
• What appliances are included?
• Is there heating? Ceiling fans? Air-conditioning?
• Are the laundry facilities suitable?
• Are there safety and security features such as smoke alarms and a burglar alarm?
• Are there enough power points and phone lines?
• Will you be able to set up your PC and Internet connection easily?
• Will the hot water system meet your needs?
• Is there sufficient parking for yourself and your guests?
• Will your pets be allowed at the property?
• How long is the lease?
• Will you be close to work and amenities?

Moving Out is not Cheap

It's important to work out what you can afford. Here's a few expenses you'll need to cover:
• Bond and four weeks rent upfront
• Removalist or truck hire expenses. Real Estate Agents can often help you find reasonable quotes.
• Connection of water, gas, electricity, phone and Internet.
Good luck! We hope you find a house in our region and look forward to meeting your storage needs.☺