House hunting is often associated with home buying, but renters know that finding a rental home requires just as much care, research, and attention to detail. Whether you’re a military family relocating to a new duty station or someone simply looking for a fresh start, the search for a rental home is about more than just finding a roof over your head. You’re searching for a place where you’ll feel comfortable, secure, and happy—a place to truly call home.
The rental market can be competitive, and the process can sometimes feel overwhelming, but by taking your time and following some practical steps, you’ll increase your chances of landing the perfect rental. It’s not just about luck; it’s about preparation, planning, and being informed. Whether you’re moving across the country or just across town, these ten tips will help guide your search and ensure you find the rental home that’s right for you.
1. Start Early and Search Often
The early bird truly gets the worm in the world of rental homes. Starting your search early is one of the best ways to ensure that you have plenty of options to choose from. Begin browsing listings well before you need to move, and make it a habit to check frequently for new postings. In competitive rental markets, homes can be rented within hours of being listed, so the more diligent you are in your search, the better chance you have of finding the right place.
Set up alerts on real estate websites or apps so that you’re immediately notified when a new listing that meets your criteria becomes available. And don’t be afraid to reach out to landlords or property managers quickly—being proactive could give you the edge over other prospective renters.
2. Identify Your Priorities and Establish a Budget
Before you start clicking through listings or setting up viewings, take the time to identify your needs and set a realistic budget. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding a new place, but without a clear idea of what you can afford and what you need, you risk wasting time or falling in love with a rental that’s out of reach.
Start by making a list of your non-negotiables: how many bedrooms do you need? Do you require pet-friendly accommodations? Is being close to work, public transportation, or good schools essential? Knowing what matters most to you will narrow your focus and help you avoid the distraction of unsuitable options.
Setting a budget is equally crucial. Make sure to account for not only the rent but also utilities, internet, parking fees, and potential pet deposits. For military families, factoring in your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is a great starting point. However, it’s also important to think about other financial commitments, such as savings goals or any debts you may need to pay down.
3. Visit the Neighborhood—Don’t Skip This Step!
The rental home itself may look perfect in photos, but its location can make or break your living experience. Before committing to a lease, visit the neighborhood at different times of the day—early morning, late afternoon, and nighttime. This will give you a fuller picture of the area’s atmosphere.
Is the neighborhood quiet and safe? Are there parks, grocery stores, or coffee shops nearby? How is the traffic, and are the streets well-lit at night? If you have kids, check the proximity to schools and playgrounds. Even if you love the house, if the neighborhood doesn’t feel right, you might want to keep looking.
If you’re moving long-distance and can’t visit in person, use tools like Google Street View to explore the area virtually or ask trusted friends or family in the area to check it out for you.
4. Know Your Credit Score and Improve It If Needed
Landlords often use credit scores to evaluate prospective tenants, so having a good credit score can give you an advantage in securing the rental you want. If your score is strong, it may even help you negotiate better terms, such as a lower security deposit. On the other hand, a poor credit score can hurt your chances, so it’s important to know where you stand before you start applying.
If your credit score isn’t where it should be, don’t panic—there are steps you can take to improve it. Start by checking your credit report for errors and disputing any inaccuracies. If there are legitimate issues affecting your score, such as late payments or high debt, begin working on resolving them. Even small improvements can make a difference.
5. Have Your Information Ready to Move Quickly
In a hot rental market, you need to be ready to move fast when you find a place you love. Most landlords and property managers will require a rental application that includes your personal information, employment verification, and rental history. Having these documents organized and ready to submit at a moment’s notice will put you ahead of other applicants.
Additionally, military families may need to provide a copy of their orders when renting near a base, so be sure to have these documents on hand as well. The quicker you can provide all the required information, the better your chances of securing the rental.
6. Be Upfront and Honest About Your Situation
Honesty is always the best policy when communicating with potential landlords. Whether you have less-than-perfect credit, a pet, or any other situation that could affect your rental application, it’s better to be upfront. Landlords appreciate tenants who are transparent about their circumstances, and being honest can help build trust from the start.
If you have past rental issues, such as a late payment or a bad experience with a previous landlord, address them directly and explain how the situation has been resolved. This can go a long way in smoothing over any concerns the landlord may have.
7. Consider Working with a Real Estate Agent or Property Manager
If you’re pressed for time or unfamiliar with the area you’re moving to, consider hiring a real estate agent or property manager to help with your search. While this option may come with fees, their local expertise can be invaluable. A good agent or property manager will have access to listings that may not be widely advertised and can guide you through the rental process with ease.
For military families, property managers near bases often have a solid understanding of military-specific needs and schedules, making the transition smoother.
8. Check the Lease for Specific Terms—Especially Military Clauses
Before signing any lease, make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms. Pay special attention to key details like the duration of the lease, the amount of the security deposit, and any rules about pets or maintenance responsibilities. If you have questions or if something doesn’t make sense, ask for clarification.
For military families, it’s essential to understand the “military clause” in the lease. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) allows service members to break a lease if they receive orders for deployment or a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). Make sure the lease includes this protection or follows the guidelines set forth by the SCRA.
9. Provide and Request References
Just as a landlord may request references from you, it’s a good idea to ask for references from the landlord or property management company. Previous tenants can provide insight into what it’s like to live in the property, how responsive the landlord is to maintenance requests, and any potential issues with the home or neighborhood.
If you don’t have a long rental history, consider providing references from employers, neighbors, or even friends who can vouch for your reliability and character. Strong references can help reassure landlords that you’ll be a responsible tenant.
10. Trust Your Instincts
When it comes to finding the perfect rental, your instincts can be your greatest guide. If something feels off—whether it’s the home, the neighborhood, or the landlord—trust your gut. There’s no rush to sign a lease if you’re not comfortable with the situation. It’s better to wait for the right rental than to settle for one that doesn’t feel right.
Military relocations, in particular, can be stressful, but don’t let the pressure of a timeline push you into making a hasty decision. The right home will present itself when the timing is right.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect rental home takes time, patience, and careful consideration. Whether you’re a military family or simply someone looking for a new place to call home, following these tips will help you stay organized and focused during your search. Keep your priorities in mind, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek professional help when needed. With the right approach, you’ll find a rental that fits your needs and feels like home. Happy house hunting!
