Be sure to check the thermostat on your walkthrough to see if it is working properly. If the house feels unusually warm or cold you might want to ask the landlord about how the HVAC systems are working. Sometimes, the unusual temperature could be because the systems could be off while no tenant is living there, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Plumbing is also something to check while doing a walk through. This could be as easy as checking each faucet and shower to make sure they are all in working condition. As long as there are no cracks that are springing leaks or a slow leak coming from the faucet, the plumbing should be good to use.
Kitchen appliances would include the oven, stove, dishwasher and microwave if the unit has one. It would be smart to go through and check each appliance to make sure they turn on and run properly. Sometimes landlords will clean up their appliances and make them look all nice but they're really not functioning as they should.
Windows usually last between 10 to 25 years depending on the material. Wood windows are closer to 10 years while vinyl windows can last around 25 years. If you're touring an older rental property and see wood windows, you should inspect them and see if they are in good condition. Windows are often overlooked in rental properties, but worn out windows will surely increase your energy bill each month.
While going through each room you should try out all of the light switches. See if the switches and bulbs work in each room. This is something to check with the landlord about to see if they are responsible for replacing bulbs in light fixtures.
Depending on your price range, some rental properties will have some small cosmetic damage that may include some nail holes in the wall from old pictures, scuffs on hardwood floors, and a few stains on carpets. The landlord should take care of all of this before new tenants move in, but that is not always the case.
These issues aren’t always the end of the world, but if you're paying a lot of money for the unit you should address it. The landlord could have a cleaning company come out and clean the floors or paint the walls.
Finally, location can make or break that perfect home. Everything else in the home could be in perfect condition but the location might not be ideal for your situation. While doing your research, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the home’s location. Is the neighborhood safe? How will the commute be to work? What school will my children attend?
These are all questions to ask yourself when looking for a home. Based on your wants and needs, you may want to be closer to your commute to work or want the convenience of having a grocery store a block away. Being in a good school district would also be important if you have school aged kids. If you are still questioning if a neighborhood is fitting for you, then check out our
blog post on how to decide if a neighborhood is right for you.
Moving into a new place is a big decision that calls for lots of research and planning. At GM Holdings, our team of professionals can assist you every step in finding your new home. We have a large selection of
luxury residential properties that will surely fit your needs.
