Moving to a new home is an exciting and transformative experience. When it comes to choosing the right living situation, single-family rental homes have gained popularity due to their privacy, space, and amenities. However, before making the leap into a single-family rental home, there are several key factors that prospective renters should consider. In this blog post, we will explore important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and fulfilling transition to your new single-family rental home.

1. Rental Cost:

One of the primary considerations when moving to a single-family rental home is the cost. Determine your budget and thoroughly assess the rental price in relation to your monthly income and other financial commitments. (Consider additional expenses such as utilities, for example.) It's crucial to strike a balance between affordability and the desired features and amenities. Remember that in many cases it can be cheaper to rent a home than to own one.

2. Location and Neighborhood:

Evaluate the location of the rental home and research the neighborhood thoroughly. Consider factors such as proximity to your workplace, schools, shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and recreational areas. Take into account the safety and security of the neighborhood, as well as its overall feel and community atmosphere. This will help ensure that the location aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

3. Amenities and Features:

Single-family rental homes often offer a variety of amenities and features that can enhance your living experience. Assess your requirements and preferences, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchen appliances, parking spaces, outdoor space, and storage options. Determine whether the property meets your immediate needs and if it has potential for long-term suitability.

4. Lease Terms and Conditions:

Carefully review the lease agreement before signing any contracts. Understand the terms and conditions, including the length of the lease, security deposit requirements, penalties for early termination, and types of fees, etc. Familiarize yourself with any guidelines that the homeowner has, such as pet policies (FirstKey Homes is pet-friendly!) and minor maintenance responsibilities. Clarify any doubts or concerns with the owner to ensure a clear understanding of your rights and obligations.

5. Maintenance and Repairs:

Consider how maintenance and repairs will be handled in your rental home. Determine whether you or the owner will be responsible for specific repairs, routine maintenance, and landscaping tasks. For example, FirstKey Homes partners with you to take care of your home; in general, we handle large repairs while residents are responsible for some minor maintenance items (like replacing air filters).

Understand the process for reporting issues and the owner’s response time. This information will help you manage expectations and ensure that your living environment remains comfortable and well-maintained throughout your tenancy. With FirstKey Homes, it’s easy and convenient to submit maintenance requests through our online FirstKey Maintenance System (FMS).

6. Resident Rights and Responsibilities:

Educate yourself about the rights and responsibilities you have as a resident. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations that protect your rights. If you rent with FirstKey Homes, your lease agreement will detail all these things, and we also provide information to you through our Resident Standards of Care. Additionally, understand your responsibilities regarding rent payments, property care, potential fees, and adherence to community rules.

7. Future Plans:

Consider your future plans and how they align with your decision to move into a single-family rental home. Evaluate factors such as job stability, potential career changes, and long-term housing goals. Assess whether renting a single-family home suits your current and foreseeable lifestyle or if other options, such as purchasing a home, may be more suitable in the long run.

Moving to a single-family rental home offers many advantages, including privacy, space, and potential lifestyle enhancements. By considering factors such as rental cost, location, amenities, lease terms, maintenance, resident rights, and your future plans, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and ensures a positive living experience. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate these considerations, and with proper planning, your move to a single-family rental home can be a fulfilling and rewarding step toward creating your ideal living environment.