The thought of being independent and having the freedom to do whatever you want is both exciting and enticing. Unfortunately, many first-time renters have a terrible experience because they’re so caught up in the event that they forget to see the little things.

1. Financial responsibility:
It’s common that first-time renters move out from the comfort of their family homes without knowing the extent of their financial capabilities. You have to write up a plan of future expenses such as electrical and internet and make sure you’re not living month to month on a pay check before you move. Be sure not to miscalculate your finances, or might come around and bite you!

2. Need/Want:
Separating what you want from what you need, can save you lots of cash and trouble down the road. Prioritize your needs first. You might need to live near your workplace so you can save on transport costs. On the other hand, you want a place with a gym. Which seems like the more obvious choice?

3. Visiting:
Under no circumstance should you agree to sign a lease before viewing and inspecting the property thoroughly. Even if you’re renting from someone you trust, you need to inspect the property otherwise there is no way to know for sure if you’ll be comfortable living there and if there are any inherent problems with the place.

4. Overlooking the lease:
Although it’s fourth on this list, this is arguably the most important thing you have to do before signing the lease. Most sign it without reading much of the fine print. When things go wrong and they confront the landlord, they find that the landlord has indemnified himself against such an issue. Always read the terms and conditions thoroughly or hire a lawyer to look at it for you.

5. Not looking at other properties:
It’s best to have a few options at hand, even if you’re convinced you’ve found the right home. This does two things; a) it keeps you prepared in case something unprecedented happens and b) it keeps you from looking too desperate and ripe for an unscrupulous landlord to take advantage of.


(中文版请看这里:http://www.durianproperty.com.my/blog/article/1323/)