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Home Rentals

Homefinders’ Ultimate Moving Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth Move

Congratulations! You’ve successfully used Homefinders to secure the rental property of your dreams. As exciting as beginning a new chapter in a new home can be, the moving process itself can often be overwhelming and stressful. To help alleviate some of that stress, we’ve created Homefinders’ Ultimate Moving Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide to ensure a smooth relocation experience.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through each phase of your move, offering practical tips and advice from searching for properties on Homefinders to signing lease agreements, packing essentials, and settling into your new home. By providing a meticulous moving plan, our checklist ensures you don’t overlook any crucial tasks or last-minute details. 

With Homefinders and our Ultimate Moving Checklist, you can confidently embark on your transition to a new home, knowing you’re fully prepared for every step of the journey.

1. Starting Your Rental Property Search

8-12 weeks before the move

It’s never too early to begin your rental property search. Homefinders offers a diverse array of listings, making it the perfect platform for your house-hunting efforts. Begin by creating a list of your desired rental property features, such as location, size, budget, amenities, and pet policies if applicable. 

Armed with these details, browse Homefinders’ user-friendly platform and utilize the advanced search filters to efficiently narrow down your options. Save your favourite listings and track any updates to stay informed about new opportunities and price changes.

2. Scheduling Property Viewings

6-8 weeks before the move

Once you have a shortlist of potential rental properties, contact the landlords or property managers through Homefinders’ secure communication system to schedule viewings. When visiting a property, take note of its condition, available amenities, and any potential concerns. 

Draft a list of questions to ask during the viewing, touching on topics like lease terms, included utilities, and maintenance responsibilities. Don’t hesitate to revisit a property to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

3. Crafting a Stellar Rental Application

4-6 weeks before the move

After selecting your desired rental property, it’s time to craft a compelling rental application. Be prepared to provide essential details, including your employment status, income, rental history, and references. Boost your application by obtaining a letter of employment or a credit report to showcase your financial stability. 

If you’re a first-time renter, consider including a character reference from a trusted individual, such as a professor or employer. Remember, submitting a polished and professional-looking application can make a significant impact on a landlord’s decision-making process.

4. Reviewing and Signing Your Lease Agreement

3-4 weeks before the move

Once a landlord has accepted your application, they will present you with a lease agreement. Take the time to thoroughly review this document, ensuring that it aligns with your expectations and understanding of the rental terms. In particular, look for clauses outlining rental payment frequency, lease duration, responsibilities for repairs and maintenance, restrictions on subletting, and terms surrounding security deposits. 

If something doesn’t seem clear, don’t hesitate to seek clarification or consult a legal expert for help. When you feel comfortable with the lease terms, sign the agreement and secure your new home.

5. Preparing for the Move: Packing, Address Updates, and Utilities

2-4 weeks before the move

Now that you’ve secured your new rental property, the real work begins. Start by decluttering your current home and ensuring you only pack items you need and use. Purchase appropriate packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and moving blankets to protect your belongings. Create an inventory list to keep track of everything you own, and begin systematically packing your non-essential items.

Simultaneously, begin the process of updating your address with essential services, such as your bank, employer, and insurance providers. Alert your government-issued ID offices (driver’s license, health card, other identification) of your address change for timely updates.

Reach out to your new landlord or property manager to inquire about utility connections in your new home. If services like water, electricity, and internet aren’t included in your rent, schedule service activation with the appropriate providers to ensure a seamless transition to your new space.

6. Coordinating Your Moving Day

1-2 weeks before the move

Moving day is fast approaching, and it’s essential to have a game plan in place. If you’re relying on friends or family to help you move, confirm their availability and what equipment or assistance they’ll provide. Alternatively, if you’re hiring professional movers, finalize the moving date, time, and additional services such as packing, disassembly, and reassembly of furniture. Additionally, obtain a detailed moving quote and confirm the payment method to avoid any last-minute surprises.

7. Final Preparations for Moving Day

The week of the move

In the week leading up to moving day, finalize your packing preparations, ensuring that all items are securely packed, labelled, and inventoried. Disassemble large furniture items and prepare your appliances for transport as necessary. 

Arrange for any pets or young children to be cared for during the moving process, and prepare an essentials box with items such as toiletries, clothing, and important documents for easy access during the first few days in your new home.

8. Settling into Your New Rental Home

Following the move

Once you’ve successfully moved into your new rental property, take the time to carefully unpack and set up your new home. Inspect the space for any damage or issues that may have been overlooked during the viewing process, and report these to your landlord or property manager promptly. Finally, remember to enjoy and embrace your new living space, knowing that Homefinders has played an instrumental role in your journey every step of the way.

Secure Your Dream Rental Home with Confidence

Understanding the rental application process on Homefinders empowers prospective tenants to make their applications stand out amongst the competition. By incorporating thorough documentation, emphasizing their strengths as tenants, and adhering to best practices, applicants can navigate the process with ease and increase their chances of securing their ideal rental property.

Homefinders’ user-friendly platform provides the tools and resources to navigate the rental market and submit applications effortlessly. With valuable insights on how to enhance your application and the ability to effortlessly manage and track submissions, Homefinders offers the ideal solution to prospective renters seeking a stress-free rental experience.

Ready to put your knowledge of the rental application process into action? Homefinders is here to help you secure your dream rental property. Begin your search now with access to a vast selection of rental listings, user-friendly search tools, and personalized support. 

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Home Rentals

Top 7 Must-Know Advantages of Renting with Homefinders

Embarking on a rental property search can be a daunting task, but with Homefinders, navigating the market has never been easier. Our platform offers numerous benefits designed to streamline the process and make your search more efficient and enjoyable. From user-friendly search filters and secure communication to personalized preferences and reliable support resources, Homefinders has all your rental needs covered.

This article will dive into the top seven must-know advantages of renting with Homefinders. You’ll learn how our platform simplifies the property search process, fostering a trusted community of tenants, landlords, and property managers. By leveraging these benefits, you’ll be better equipped to find and secure your ideal rental property with confidence. 

Opt for Homefinders and experience a stress-free rental search journey that leaves you feeling supported and satisfied every step of the way.

1. User-Friendly Search Tools and Filters

One of the standout advantages of renting with Homefinders is the platform’s comprehensive selection of user-friendly search tools and filters. These tools allow you to effortlessly explore rental properties based on your specific preferences, such as location, budget, property type, number of bedrooms, and desired amenities. By streamlining your search and presenting only the most relevant options, Homefinders saves you time and energy, enabling you to find the perfect rental with ease.

2. Secure and Reliable Communication System

Homefinders understands the importance of secure communication in today’s digital world. That’s why the platform offers a safe and reliable communication system for users to connect with property owners, landlords, and property managers. This system emphasizes privacy and security, reducing the risk of spam or unwanted interactions while allowing you to confidently share sensitive information. By ensuring secure communication, Homefinders creates an environment where tenants and property owners can establish trust and build strong relationships.

3. Accurate and Up-to-Date Listings

When searching for rental properties, it’s crucial to have access to accurate and up-to-date information. Homefinders prioritizes offering high-quality listings with complete and reliable information. 

The platform encourages property owners and managers to maintain the latest details about rent rates, available units, and property features. By providing accurate listings, Homefinders allows you to browse with confidence, ensuring that you are making well-informed decisions during your rental search.

4. Personalized Experience and Saved Searches

Homefinders is dedicated to offering a highly personalized experience tailored to your unique preferences. The platform allows you to create a customized account, save your favourite listings, and set up search filters to receive notifications about new properties matching your criteria. 

By providing these features, Homefinders enables you to efficiently manage your rental search while staying informed about the latest opportunities in real time. The platform’s adaptability to your preferences empowers you to smoothly navigate the rental market and find your dream rental property effectively.

5. Comprehensive Support and Resources

In addition to providing a seamless rental search experience, Homefinders is committed to offering valuable support and resources for both tenants and landlords. These resources include educational content such as blog posts, articles, and guides addressing various aspects of the rental process. 

By equipping users with essential information and expert advice, Homefinders empowers you to successfully navigate the rental market and make informed decisions. Examples of educational content you can expect on the platform include tips on understanding lease agreements, crafting compelling rental applications, and insights on rental property maintenance and market trends.

6. Vetted Landlords and Property Managers

Homefinders takes pride in fostering a reliable community of trustworthy landlords and property managers. By showcasing only vetted and reputable property owners, the platform ensures a safe and professional environment for both tenants and landlords to transact. This commitment to offering secure and trustworthy rental opportunities enhances tenants’ peace of mind and confidence in securing a rental property through the platform.

7. Transparent Reviews and Ratings

Another significant advantage of renting with Homefinders is the platform’s integration of transparent reviews and ratings. These reviews provide insights into the experiences of previous tenants, giving you valuable context when considering a rental property. Honest feedback from past renters can help you make better-informed decisions and avoid potential issues down the line. Additionally, Homefinders uses these reviews to maintain the integrity of its community by identifying and addressing any concerns or shortcomings among property owners.

Additional Benefit: Mobile Application for On-the-Go Rental Searches

In today’s fast-paced world, being able to access information on-the-go is essential. Homefinders understands this need and offers a user-friendly mobile application, making it easy to browse rental properties anytime, anywhere. With the mobile app, you can stay updated on new listings, track your favourite properties, and communicate with landlords or property managers without being tied down to a desktop computer. By offering this flexibility and convenience, Homefinders ensures a smooth rental search experience that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Leveraging these benefits offered by Homefinders, you can rest assured that your rental property search will be efficient, enjoyable, and fruitful. With an intuitive platform designed to cater to your specific needs, you can confidently embark on your rental journey, knowing that Homefinders has you covered every step.

Streamline Your Rental Property Search with Homefinders

Homefinders offers an abundance of advantages designed to elevate and streamline your rental property search experience. The platform’s user-friendly search tools, secure communication, accurate listings, personalized features, and comprehensive support resources make finding the perfect rental property easy and enjoyable. Furthermore, the emphasis on fostering a reliable community of vetted landlords and property managers alongside transparent reviews creates a trusted environment for both tenants and landlords to thrive.

Homefinders serves as a critical resource for anyone navigating the rental market, offering convenience and peace of mind throughout the entire process. By leveraging the platform’s wealth of benefits, you’ll be better positioned to find the ideal rental property while forging strong relationships with trustworthy property owners.

Are you ready to discover a smoother, more efficient rental property search experience? Choose Homefinders today! Explore our platform and take advantage of our diverse listings, powerful search tools, and valuable resources through our website. Embark on your rental journey with confidence and join our thriving community of satisfied tenants and property owners now!

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Home Rentals

Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Rental Property

Searching for a new home can undoubtedly be a time-consuming and overwhelming process. With countless rental options available, it’s crucial to streamline your search and optimize your prospecting strategy. 

Homefinders is a rental listings platform that offers a vast selection of properties for those seeking their ideal home. Diligently designed with users in mind, this platform complements your rental property search with valuable tools and easily accessible information. But how does one maximize its efficiency and quickly narrow down available options?

In this guide, we will dive into a step-by-step walkthrough of navigating Homefinders, exploring its features, search filters, and hidden treasures to uncover the perfect rental property with ease. We’ll reveal expert tips and strategies on how to save time and effort through our personalized system while leveraging useful tools to swiftly compare and select properties tailored to your needs and preferences. 

Whether you’re a first-time renter or a seasoned tenant, this ultimate guide aims to make your rental property search a seamless, rewarding experience while avoiding potential pitfalls. Join us as we embark on the journey of mastering Homefinders and discovering the foolproof path to finding your dream home.

Step 1: Prepare Your Property Search Criteria

Before immersing yourself in Homefinders’ comprehensive listings, it’s essential to establish a clear vision of your ideal rental property. Identify your preferences and requirements in terms of location, budget, property type, and amenities. Consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, public transportation, and lifestyle amenities to find the most suitable neighbourhood for you.

Keep in mind that you might have to be flexible with some of your criteria. Prioritize your non-negotiable needs and distinguish them from your preferences, as this will allow you to navigate the platform effectively while focusing on what truly matters.

Step 2: Navigate Homefinders’ Search Features

With your search criteria defined, it’s time to explore Homefinders’ diverse range of property listings. The platform’s user-friendly interface offers an array of search filters and tools that streamline your hunt for the perfect rental property. The following features can greatly assist you in narrowing down your options:

– Location search: Enter your desired city or neighbourhood to display area-specific property listings. Use the interactive map feature to visualize the locations of available properties and nearby amenities.

– Advanced search options: Customize your search even further by selecting specific property types, budget ranges, number of bedrooms, and additional features or amenities that meet your preferences.

– Save your search: Once you’ve set your ideal filters, save your search to receive notifications about new listings matching your criteria.

Step 3: Analyze Property Listings in Detail

As you browse through Homefinders’ extensive list of rental properties, pay close attention to each listing’s details. Thoroughly examine photos, floor plans, and descriptions to gain a clear understanding of the property’s layout, features, and overall condition. Additionally, take note of any terms or restrictions, such as pet policies and minimum lease duration.

Familiarize yourself with the rent amount, utility responsibilities, and any other fees outlined in the listing. Budgeting accurately for all monthly expenses will prevent unexpected surprises and help you make informed decisions.

Don’t hesitate to contact the listed property representative with any questions or clarifications you may need. Open communication can provide valuable insights about the property and the leasing process.

Step 4: Keep a Record of Favourite Properties

As you assess various rental properties, it’s helpful to maintain a list of your favourites for easy reference and comparison. Homefinders enables users to save their top choices to a personalized “Favourites” folder, streamlining the decision-making process.

Doing so allows you to efficiently revisit your shortlisted options and weigh their pros and cons without rummaging through countless listings again.

Step 5: Schedule Property Visits

With your favourite properties compiled, it’s time to see them in person. Scheduling property visits allows you to assess the rental firsthand, verifying its condition, features, and overall suitability for your needs. This not only provides you with a more accurate impression of the property but also offers an opportunity to build rapport with the landlord or property manager.

To arrange your visits, use the contact information provided in the property listings or send a message through Homefinders’ built-in messaging system. Be sure to ask about required documents or application processes during your visit, as this can expedite the leasing process should you decide to move forward with a property.

Step 6: Prepare A Strong Rental Application

Once you’ve found your ideal rental property, it’s crucial to submit a strong and complete rental application to secure the home. Homefinders’ platform often provides information on the application process unique to each property.

Compile all required documentation, such as personal identification, bank statements, income verification, rental history, and references. Additionally, consider including a cover letter explaining your eagerness to rent the property and showcasing your reliability as a tenant. A detailed and persuasive rental application increases your chances of being selected by the landlord or property manager.

Step 7: Review Lease Agreement Thoroughly

Upon receiving a rental offer, you’ll be presented with an official lease agreement to review and sign. Homefinders strongly encourages tenants to thoroughly examine the lease terms, ensuring they understand and agree with all conditions outlined in the agreement.

Be vigilant of additional clauses, such as renewal options, rent increases, maintenance responsibilities, and early lease termination penalties. Remember that you have the right to negotiate lease terms with the landlord or property manager. Don’t hesitate to voice your concerns or propose amendments before signing the lease.

By meticulously following this guide, you can turn your rental property search on Homefinders into an enjoyable and fruitful experience. Remember to leverage the platform’s powerful search tools and strategies to simplify your hunt for the perfect rental property tailored to your needs. Armed with this knowledge, you’re on your way to effortlessly finding your dream home.

Seize Your Dream Rental Property with Homefinders

Discovering the perfect rental property with Homefinders is achievable with the right approach, careful planning, and diligent use of valuable search tools. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the platform and secure the ideal home that caters to your specific needs and preferences.

Homefinders strives to create a seamless, user-friendly rental experience for both tenants and landlords. Our extensive and diverse selection of listings, combined with intuitive features and personalized support, positions you for success in your rental property search journey. Trust Homefinders to be your go-to platform for all your rental needs, making the process of finding and securing a home both enjoyable and rewarding.

Begin your search for the perfect rental property today with Homefinders. Browse our comprehensive listings and experience unparalleled ease in finding your dream home. Click here to start your journey!

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Home Rentals

Choosing the Right Tenant for Your Rental Property: A Landlord’s Guide

As a landlord, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll have to make is selecting the right tenant for your rental property. The right tenant can provide a steady flow of rental income, ensure your property stays in pristine condition, and maintain a more harmonious relationship between you and the tenants. However, finding that ideal tenant can be a challenge with a myriad of potential candidates. But fret not! Homefinders’ latest guide is here to help you navigate the process of selecting the best tenant for your rental properties.

An essential aspect of the tenant screening process is understanding their rental history, creditworthiness, employment stability, and adherence to lease terms. This information can help you gauge the likelihood of a prospective tenant paying rent on time, maintaining the property, and abiding by the lease agreement. The more strategic your approach is, the more likely you are to attract renters who will create a positive rental experience.

Before diving into the tenant screening process, it’s important to set your criteria and understand the implications of the Fair Housing Act. This federal law prevents landlords from discriminating against tenants based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, and other protected factors. So, ensure your tenant screening process adheres to these guidelines.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some practical tips and strategies to help you choose the best tenant for your rental property. We’ll discuss the importance of detailed rental applications and thorough background checks, conducting credit checks, verifying employment, and the benefits of following up with prior landlords for references.

Finding the perfect tenant for your rental property may seem daunting, but with the right approach and our helpful guide, you’ll be well on your way to securing a successful landlord-tenant relationship. Keep reading Homefinders’ blog to learn more about managing your rental property and attracting high-quality tenants.

1. Create a Comprehensive Rental Application

The first step in the tenant screening process is having a detailed rental application that gathers relevant information about prospective tenants. The application should request the following information:

  • Personal details, such as full name, date of birth, and contact information
  • Current residence and previous rental history
  • Employment history, including employer’s contact details
  • Monthly income
  • Number of occupants and any pets
  • Authorization to conduct a background check and credit report

Having a comprehensive rental application helps set the foundation for an effective screening process, providing valuable insight into your potential tenant’s background.

2. Conduct Thorough Background and Credit Checks

Next, carry out a comprehensive background check to verify the applicant’s claimed identity, employment, criminal history, and rental history. This step is vital, as it can uncover potential red flags, such as previous evictions, criminal records, or a history of late rental payments. When evaluating an applicant’s rental history, be cautious of any gaps or negative reports.

In addition to a background check, analyze the candidate’s credit report to assess their creditworthiness. A credit report will provide information about an applicant’s credit history, outstanding debts, and overall financial situation. Potential renters with good credit scores typically pose less risk and have a higher likelihood of making rent payments on time.

Keep in mind, the Fair Housing Act and Canadian Human Rights Act prohibit discrimination based on protected characteristics. Always ensure your screening process adheres to these regulations.

3. Verify Employment and Income

To establish your prospective tenant’s ability to afford rental payments, verify their employment status and monthly income. Contact their employer to confirm the details provided on the rental application, including their role, length of employment, and income. This information will help you determine the applicant’s job stability and whether their income is sufficient to cover the monthly rental payments.

As a general rule, a tenant’s monthly income should be at least three times the monthly rent. This ratio ensures that the renter can comfortably afford the property and helps limit the chances of late or missing payments.

4. Request and Review Landlord References

Obtaining references from prior landlords can be an invaluable source of insight into the applicant’s previous rental experiences. Reach out to the provided references to inquire about the tenant’s history with rent payments, property upkeep, and general property management relationships, including their reasons for leaving the previous residences.

Prospective tenants who received glowing recommendations from previous landlords are more likely to be reliable and responsible renters moving forward.

Trust Your Instincts and Make an Informed Decision

Ultimately, after following the steps above, remember to trust your instincts when selecting a tenant for your rental property. Pay attention to red flags or inconsistencies in application materials and evaluate whether the applicant truly aligns with your criteria.

Finding the right tenant may be time-consuming, but investing the effort to conduct thorough screenings will result in more stable and worry-free rental property management. With diligence and a well-structured approach, you can attract high-quality tenants to your property, fostering positive landlord-tenant relationships and ensuring your investment remains secure and profitable.

Homefinders is here to help rental property owners at every stage of the leasing process. By following our guidelines and calling on our support, you’ll be well-equipped to select the best tenant for your rental property and enjoy a successful rental experience.

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Home Rentals Houses for rent

Basic Costs You Need to Consider Before Renting an Apartment

Whether it’s your very first apartment or your fifth, finding an ideal apartment that fits both your lifestyle and budget is not an easy task. After all, with so many different factors to consider, it is natural to lose track of some of the most crucial details. However, by being organized and with proper planning, you can easily make your apartment-hunting job easier and faster. And in case you live in or around Kelowna, finding the right rental apartment can be so much easier. All you have to do is get in touch with the team at Homefinders and state your requirements. The team will provide you with a list of affordable houses for rent in Kelowna as per your preferences and budget.

With that being said, before you start apartment hunting, it’s important to consider how much you can afford to pay. From the application fee, the rent, brokerage fee, and security deposit to the average cost of utilities, parking fees, and renter’s insurance, you’ll need to spend a lot of money before you have even moved in. However, considering these costs will help you decide whether or not you can afford to rent a particular apartment before you fall in love with it. To help you out, we will discuss some of the most important costs every tenant should consider to find the right apartment.

Top 4 Costs to Consider Before Renting an Apartment.

Top 4 Costs to Consider Before Renting an Apartment

Renting an apartment isn’t only about the monthly rent. You have to consider the upfront costs to make sure your budget doesn’t exceed your monthly income. Here is a list of the top four costs you should consider before beginning your search for rental apartments.

  • Application Fee

The application fee is the first thing you will have to pay when you decide to rent an apartment. It typically starts from $30 and may go up to $60, depending on various factors such as the location and type of rental you’re applying for.

Depending on where you are planning to live, you may be asked to pay an administration fee along with the application fee. Some property management companies take the administration fee to cover the tenant’s credit and background checks. However, if you are looking for homes for rent in Kelowna, you can contact Homefinders to avoid paying any additional fees.

  • Security Deposit

A security deposit is an amount that every tenant needs to pay to the landlord at the beginning of the tenancy. It serves as proof of intent to move in and can also be used to pay for damages or lost property. Security deposits are held by the landlords throughout the rental agreement and the tenants can get their security deposit back when they vacate the property.

  • Renter’s Insurance

Another important cost that you need to consider before renting an apartment is the renter’s insurance. It will protect you and your personal belongings and liabilities from unexpected circumstances such as theft, fire, vandalism, and electrical malfunctions. Added to that, it will cover all the expenses in case you can’t stay at your rental apartment and need to temporarily relocate.

So, if you, too, are planning to lease an apartment and are on the lookout for house rentals in Kelowna or elsewhere, we would recommend you take renter’s insurance. In addition to offering you coverage, it will also protect you from liability if someone is injured on your property.

  • Maintenance Fees

Apartment communities that offer luxury amenities, such as fitness centers, swimming pools, game rooms, community gardens, and private spas, require tenants to pay a monthly maintenance fee. Hence, if you want to avoid any surprise charges and get a realistic picture of what you can actually afford, you should include the maintenance fees in your budget.

The Bottom Line Anyone who’s looking for rented accommodation should know that besides paying the monthly rent, tenants need to shell out a significant amount of money for other expenses as well. In case you are looking for houses for rent in Kelowna, you can reach out to us. At Homefinders, we provide the best rental relocation services at reasonable rates. To get in touch with us, call 250-899-8133.

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Apartment Rental Home Rentals

Everything You Need to Know About Holding Deposits.

Finding the right rental apartment can be stressful and time-consuming. After all, there are so many factors that you need to consider if you want to get that one-of-a-kind rental you always dreamed of. From determining your budget and choosing an ideal neighbor to providing documents to your landlord to convince him or her that you’re a good candidate, the list goes on. However, if you live in or around Kelowna, finding rental apartments is even easier. At Homefinders, we provide the best selection of house rentals in Kelowna. So, whether you need a studio apartment, duplex, or triplex, we have got you covered.

When you decide to rent a property, you must know about the different types of payments you may have to pay as a renter. From an application fee and a security deposit to the rent for the next month, there’s a good amount of expenses you need to consider. However, some landlords require you to pay a holding deposit as well. Want to know what a holding deposit is and what it entails? Well, keep reading the blog till the end.

All You Need to Know About Holding Deposits.
  • What is a holding deposit?

A holding deposit is a specialized type of deposit that tenants need to pay landlords to hold the property until the tenants can move in. It demonstrates the tenant’s commitment to the property and needs to be paid before paying a security deposit or signing a lease. However, it’s advisable to make a separate agreement for the holding deposit that will specifically specify the purpose of the deposit. Why so? Well, let’s say, after visiting numerous Kelowna rental properties, you have finally found the right property for you. But you can’t move in till next month. In this case, the agreement will stipulate all the terms and conditions regarding the refund of the holding deposit.

  • How much is a holding deposit?

The holding deposit is typically less than a security deposit and is equal to one week’s rent for the unit you want to reserve. Some landlords may say that the rate depends on the location and the market’s competitiveness, but remember that the holding deposit is capped by law. Hence, no landlord is allowed to ask for more than a week’s rent.

In case you have recently moved to Kelowna and are on the lookout for affordable home rentals in Kelowna, you can contact Homefinders. We curate and list properties from various individual partners to provide you with the best rental apartments.

  • When do landlords refund the holding deposit?

The landlord must refund the holding deposit within 7 days if:

  • The landlord breaks the agreement and rents the unit out to some other prospective tenant.
  • Once the tenant signs the tenancy agreement and pays the security deposit.

However, some landlords don’t return the holding deposit directly. They may roll it into your other costs like the security deposit or the first month’s rent.

  • What happens if the tenant withdraws the application?

In case the tenant withdraws his or her application, the landlord is entitled to keep the holding deposit. Apart from this, there are many other scenarios when the holding deposit won’t be returned to the tenant. For instance, if the tenant provides misleading or false information during the screening or fails the “right to rent” check, the landlord can keep the holding deposit.

The Bottom Line:

The holding deposit promotes the commitment of both parties. While it serves as a tenant’s pledge to rent the unit, the landlord must take the property off the market and should not rent it to other potential tenants. Once the tenant is ready to move in, he or she can either agree to deduct it from the first month’s rent or simply ask for a refund. Now, in case you are looking for house rentals in Kelowna, you can consider getting in touch with us. At Homefinders, we have the largest selection of rental properties to help our clients find the perfect home based on their preferences and requirements. Hurry up and avail of our services today!

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Uncategorized

Top Reasons Why Screening a Tenant Is Important.

For landlords, finding good tenants for their rental properties is the ultimate goal. After all, ideal tenants will not only pay rent on time but take care of your property and keep it well-maintained. Troublesome tenants, on the other hand, may not pay rent on time, damage your property, and even sublet the apartment without your permission. But in order to find a good tenant, the most important thing that you need to do is screen your prospective tenants. However, if you live in Kelowna or nearby areas and are looking for ideal tenants for your Kelowna home rentals, you can contact Homefinders. We provide a pre-screened tenant database to help landlords find the right renter.

Screening your prospective tenants will help you distinguish ideal tenants from troublesome tenants. Added to that, it’ll also help you assess possible risks you would be taking by renting out your apartment. If you’re still unsure whether or not you should do a tenant screening before renting out your property, take a look at the benefits tenant screening has to offer.

Top 5 Reasons Why Screening a Tenant Is Important

Top 5 Reasons Why Screening Tenants Is Important

Sometimes, it is difficult to tell whether the prospective tenant is as trustworthy and reliable as he or she seems. Here, using tenant screening can be very helpful. Here are the top reasons why screening tenants thoroughly is important.

  • Filters Out Bad Tenants

In a perfect world, your home rentals in Kelowna or elsewhere would be filled with renters who caused no damage, paid on time, got along with their neighbors, and did not have a criminal history. Well, the best way to make this dream a reality is through a thorough tenant screening process! By obtaining information about a prospective tenant’s eviction history, criminal history, employment status, and credit history, you can filter out bad tenants who aren’t suitable for your property.

  • Reduces Turnover

Another reason why landlords should screen their tenants is that it helps keep the turnover rate low. Whenever tenants leave, landlords are left with the costly process of filling their vacancies which leads to a higher turnover rate. With tenant screening, you will not only be able to find reliable tenants who are willing to sign longer leases but reduce the turnover rate as well.

  • Help Avoid Costly Evictions

Eviction is a complicated, lengthy, and costly process. Although it happens for a wide variety of reasons, it is mainly due to a severe breach of the lease or non-payment of the rent. By screening tenants, you can reduce the risk of evictions. How? Well, let’s say you live in Kelowna or nearby areas and need good tenants for your rental apartment. Although you’ll find a lot of tenants who are looking for homes for rent in Kelowna, tenant screening will help you choose the right one, thereby reducing the chances of an eviction.

  • Protects Your Property

While good tenants will take care of your property, troublesome tenants may damage your property and leave you with costly repairs. With tenant screening, you will be able to look at the tenant’s prior eviction records and find out whether or not the tenant was evicted for property damage.

  • Reveals the Tenant’s Current Financial Situation

By screening tenants, you can look into their financial situation and determine how reliable they’ll be when it comes to paying the monthly rent. Details like credit score, monthly income, and employment of the tenant will help you find out if he or she has a history of credit card debt as it may cause delays in regular payments.

The Bottom Line: So, if you don’t want high-risk tenants in your rental property, make sure to screen each tenant before letting them in. A thorough tenant screening will help you find ideal tenants who have good credit scores, a clean record, and consistent employment. Should you be looking for ideal tenants for your Kelowna home rentals, reach out to us. At Homefinders, we provide landlords with the best platforms to advertise and manage their rental properties. For more details, visit https://www.homefinders.rentals/landlords or call 1(888)289-9340.

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Apartment Rental Home Rentals Houses for rent

What Are the Best Ways to Deal With a Holdover Tenant?

One of the most challenging parts of being a landlord can be dealing with renters. How? Well, let’s say you are a landlord in Kelowna or nearby areas and are looking for prospective renters for your house rentals in Kelowna. Before choosing a tenant, you will have to verify their proof of income, check their credit scores, and run a criminal background check to make sure they are the best fit. When you rent your apartment to a good tenant, you can be confident that he or she will take care of your property, pay the rent on time, and follow the terms of the lease. A bad tenant, on the other hand, will never make on-time rental payments, lead to significant damage to your property, and may not even report maintenance issues until they are unbearable. However, nothing can be more distressing to landlords than having to deal with renters who continue to stay in the apartment without their consent.

When a tenant refuses to leave the apartment even after the expiration date of the lease, he or shebecomes a “holdover tenant”. In a situation like this, the landlord should take the case to the authorities and follow the proper legal procedure to evict the renter from your property. In this blog, we will discuss some of the best ways to deal with a holdover tenant and reclaim your property.

Top 5 Ways to Deal With a Holdover Tenant

Top Ways to Deal With a Holdover Tenant

There are various ways to deal with holdover tenants, but regardless of which way you choose, you need to make sure it doesn’t involve any financial risk.

  • Give the Tenant a Formal Notice

Beforestarting the eviction process, you need to send a formal notice to the holdover tenant. Itwill inform the tenant that he or she must leave the property by a specific date or you will initiate eviction proceedings.

Some of thepoints that must be included in the notice are:

  • A justifiable reason for the eviction
  • Address of the rental property
  • Date when the tenant must move out

If you are looking for good tenants for your house rentals in Kelowna, you can get in touch with Homefinders. We provide our clients with a pre-screened database containing all the important details about each tenant.

  • Terminate the Lease Agreement

Whena tenant significantly violates the terms of the lease agreement,a landlord can officially terminate the lease. And since the holdover tenant has violated the rules by continuing to live in the apartment even after the lease has expired, you have the right to send a notice stating that the tenancy has been terminated. The termination notice will clearly state that the tenancy is over and the renter must vacate the apartment or the landlord will file a lawsuit.

  • Evict the Tenant

If you don’t want the handover tenant to continue to stay at your apartment, you can choose to formally evict him or her. Having said that, you can’t threaten the tenant in any way or forcibly remove them. You need tofollowthe right ways to serve an eviction notice properly andstick to the legal eviction process.However, in some places, you will need to provide proof of a lapsed lease to prove that the tenant is staying in your rental apartment without your permission.

We understand that with so many tenants looking for homes for rent in Kelowna or elsewhere, finding the right ones is not always possible. But, should you want to steer clear of bad tenants, make sure to prepare a lease agreement before letting out your apartment.

  • Opt fora Month-to-month Lease

If you don’t want to keep your rental apartment vacant, you can opt for the month-on-month lease option. In this case, the holdover tenants can continue to live in the apartment for an agreed-upon period.

  • Sue for Damages

Someholdover tenants not only refuse to vacate the apartment but also leave the property damaged. In such cases, youhavethe legal right to sue your tenant. Moreover, you can also withhold the security deposit to cover damages or take legal action to compensate for the damage.

The Bottom Line:

There you go. By following these steps, you can easily deal with holdover tenants and have them removed from your rental property. Should you be looking for a company that offers the best rental relocation services, reach out to us. At Homefinders, we offer a pre-screened tenant database containing a list of tenants looking for house rentals in Kelowna. To know more about our services, call @ 250-899-8133.

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Apartment Rental Home Rentals Houses for rent

Why Is Renting an Apartment Better Than Buying One?

Buying a home is a significant investment for most of us but that doesn’t mean it is for everyone. Due to the sky-rocketing property prices, a lot of people are opting for home rentals rather than buying an apartment. After all, renting an apartment involves just one recurring monthly cost: the rent. Homeownership, on the other hand, includes various expenses such as financing and registration costs, property tax, maintenance cost, and more. However, deciding whether to rent or buy an apartment is indeed a big decision as it not only affects your personal goals and lifestyle but most importantly, your financial health. They both need you to have a regular income so that you can afford the payments and associated costs.

Both renting and buying have their own advantages, but renting does appear to retain an edge.Although you need to pay a security deposit equal to one month’s rent, it is considerably less than a down payment. Moreover, renters have greater flexibility,lower utility bills, and access to amenities, such as parking lots, gyms, and pools that might otherwise be extremely expensive. In this blog, we will discuss some of the top reasons why renting an apartment could be a better option than buying one.

Reasons Why Renting an Apartment Is Better Than Buying One.

Top 5 Reasons Why Renting an Apartment Is Better Than Buying One

While buying an apartment involves some serious savings, renting can help you maintain your lifestyle and flexibility. Here are the top reasons why renting could be the smartest move.

  • No Down Payment Is Needed

The down payment typically costs around 20% of the cost of the home, excluding the settlement fees. So, let’s say you are planning to buy a house in Kelowna or nearby areas and the cost of the house is around $200,000. This means that you will need to have over $50,000 in cash. Renters, too, need to save up some money for a security deposit but that is nothing when compared to the amount of cash you have to save for the down payment. Also, the security deposit will be returned to you when you move out, provided you have not damaged the rental property. Hence, opting for homes for rent in Kelowna might be an ideal option for you.

  • Don’t Need to Pay Property Tax

Property taxes can be a significant financial burden to homeowners and are determined based on the amount of land on which it’s built and the estimated property value of the house. But when you are renting an apartment, apart from paying the rent and utility bills, you don’t need to worry about any other property-related costs.

  • No Maintenance Costs

One of the top benefits of renting an apartment is that tenants don’t need to pay any repair bills or maintenance costs. If something needs fixing, such as a plumbing issue, you just have to call the landlord and ask him/her to fix it.

Should you be located in Kelowna or nearby areas and looking for places for rent, reach out to Homefinders. We can provide you with the largest selection of rental properties that fit your needs and preferences.

  • Access to Amenities

When you rent an apartment, you can have access to numerous amenities that can otherwise be a huge expense. Some of these facilities include swimming pools, business centers, community rooms, parking lots, and fitness centers, among others.

The Bottom Line

Apart from these, there are lots of other reasons why renting an apartment is better than buying one. Renting an apartment provides you with the flexibility to move out whenever you want without any penalty. Moreover, it doesn’t need any significant financial investments. So, if you need assistance in finding affordable home rentals, you can get in touch with our team .At Homefinders, we go through hundreds of websites on a daily basis to provide our clients with the best rental properties to choose from.

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Apartment Rental Home Rentals

Top Questions to Ask a Landlord Before Renting an Apartment

Renting provides you with a home without any of the burdens of homeownership. You can change apartments whenever you want and there’s no burden of accountability either. However, whether you are relocating for work, trying out a new city, or simply downsizing, apartment hunting can be a strenuous task. After all, there are so many things you need to consider while looking for ideal home rentals. Some of the most important ones include the budget, location, neighborhood, and amenities, among other things.

However, if you want to make sure that the potential property is a perfect place to call home, ask the landlords a few important questions before signing the lease. It will give you a better insight into the area, the property, and, most importantly, the people you will be dealing with during your tenancy. In this blog, we will discuss some of the top questions you’ll need to ask the landlord during your house-hunting process.

Key Questions to Ask a Landlord Before Renting an Apartment

Questions You Need to Ask a Landlord Before Renting an Apartment

Should you want to avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong place to rent, don’t forget to ask the landlords some key questions before you sign on the dotted line. Some of them have been mentioned below.

  • How much is the security deposit? Is it refundable?

Tenants need to pay a deposit amount to their landlords before they move into a rented property. A landlord usually charges between one to six months of rent as a deposit, depending on the location of the property, amenities in the house, and furnishings. So, before renting an apartment, make sure the security deposit is within your budget and is refundable. Also, check the conditions for your security deposit’s return and ask for a receipt for any fees paid.

If you are moving to Kelowna or nearby areas and are looking for house rentals in Kelowna, contactHomefinders. We offer the best home rentals at competitive rates.

  • Can I sublet my apartment?

Some landlords prohibit subleases. So, if you have any plans to sublet your apartment, don’t forget to ask this question before signing the lease. Remember, subletting your apartment without obtaining the consent of the landlord provides a ground for eviction of the tenant.

  • What’s included in the rent?

Many tenants choose rental properties based on the factors like their budget, location, and neighborhood. And when they hear that a property is available that perfectly meets their preferences, they instantly decide to take it up. But, that’s completely wrong! Before renting a property, you need to know what’s included in the rent. For instance, if you live in Kelowna or nearby areas and are looking for Kelowna rental properties, ask the landlord about the amenities that are included in the rent. Some landlords ask the tenants to pay extra for utilities such as water, electricity, air conditioning, and more. This way you’ll be able to avoid unexpected expenses.

  • Does the property have parking?

Questions like “Does the property have a private driveway?”, “Do I have to pay for parking?” can help you decide whether the property is ideal for you. So, ask your landlord if you will need a resident’s parking permit or if the property comes with a parking space.

  • How often are the locks changed?

Asking about an apartment’s locks may not be the first question that comes to your mind, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Why? Well, that’s because if the locks are not changed often, there is a chance that old tenants might have the access to your rental. So, request your landlord to replace the locks before you live in. This way, you will have the peace of mind that nobody else has the access to your house.

The Bottom Line:

Apart from these, there are many other questions that you can ask the landlord during your house-hunting process. You can ask them if there’s a penalty for breaking any clause, the payment methods for the rent, pet policy, and more. Should you be looking for a company that offers the best rental relocation services and can help you find the best home rentals at affordable rates, get in touch with us. At Homefinders, we offer the largest selection of rental properties that fit your particular needs and preferences. To know more about our services, call 250-899-8133.