The rise in cost of home ownership has shifted perspective, making renting a more favourable option for many. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the rental market trends, ensuring you stay on top of rent price fluctuations and regional variations.
Houses To Rent Under $200/Month
Seeking a bargain in the rental market may seem like looking for a needle in a haystack, especially when the national median rent stands Yet, there exist houses to rent under $200 per month – although rare and often requiring a lot of research and patience. These properties typically aren't in the biggest cities or the most popular locations. Instead, they're often found in smaller towns or rural areas, where the cost of living is significantly less than the national average.
Consider places like Fairbanks, Alaska or Fort Smith, Arkansas where housing costs are significantly lower than the national average. For instance, a 200 square foot tiny home is currently listed at $185 per month in Fairbanks, while in Fort Smith, a shared single room in a larger home will run you about $195 per month. Both listings are a far cry from the staggering nationwide median, offering an affordable living option amidst rising rental prices.
How To Find Your Dream Rental House
Embarking on the quest for your dream rental house can feel like an intimidating endeavor. There's a mixed bag of emotions that come with it; the excitement of new beginnings, the uncertainty of unfamiliar territory, the challenge of finding the perfect fit in your budget, and most importantly, a place that you can proudly call 'home'. The good news is, it's entirely feasible and deserving of your efforts.
Start by figuring out your priorities, make a comprehensive list of what you value the most in a home, it could be the location, amenities, size, design, or proximity to work and public transportation. Using tools like the Zumper National Rent Report can be immensely helpful in getting an overview of the rental market and understanding rent price trends, this could give you a clear idea of what you can expect to find within your budget range. Don't shy away from negotiating leases, remember as a tenant, you hold considerable rights and bargaining power.
Homes For Rent Backyard Included
Finding a rental house with a backyard comes with numerous advantages. An outdoor space like a backyard can serve as an area for relaxation, a place for barbeques, the perfect playground for the children, or the much-needed space for your furry friends. Moreover, it can also contribute to your mental and physical well-being, as spending time in nature has been proven to reduce stress, boost mood and improve overall health.
In the current market, more and more rental properties built during the construction boom are coming up with add-on amenities like backyards. While it may cause a slight hike in the rental costs, think of it as paying for an additional room with endless possibilities, from cultivating your mini vegetable garden to hosting your social events. Keep in mind, with respect to the local laws and restrictions, you might be allowed to negotiate the terms of the lease with the landlords to match your needs related to the usage of the backyard.
Watch Out These Signs Before Renting
As you navigate the rental market, there are plenty of red flags to watch out for. These signs can serve as early warnings, helping you steer clear of potential problems later on. Pay close attention to the condition of the house you're interested in. Watch out for serious signs of disrepair, such as leaky faucets, faulty electrical wiring, structural damage, or signs of pests. If a landlord seems reluctant to address these issues or if they're dismissive of your concerns, it's a clear indicator that they may not be responsive to maintenance requests in the future. This can potentially turn your dream rental house into a nightmare.
Additionally, be cognizant of how a prospective landlord interacts with you. If they seem overly eager to get you to sign a lease without providing ample time to read it thoroughly, or if they're vague about policies, these could be indicators of potential housing scams. Also, watch for any indications of discriminatory practices such as refusal to rent to families with children, to people of a certain race or nationality, or to people with disabilities. These are serious warning signs and clear violations of the Fair Housing Act. By looking out for these signs, you can confidently navigate the rental market and find a house that's right for your specific needs.
