THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR FIRST TIME RENTERS

Are you preparing to move out of home for the very first time? Feeling excited... and maybe a little overwhelmed? You’re not alone! Stepping into your first rental property can feel like a major milestone, and with that excitement often comes a hundred questions.

Don’t worry, at Umbrella Realty we’ve got you covered. From understanding how leases work, to making sure you get your bond back, here are the top tips and must-know info to help you navigate your first rental experience like a pro.

How Leases Work

Before you move in, you’ll need to sign a lease agreement. This is a legally binding contract between you (the tenant) and the landlord. It outlines:

How long you’ll be renting the property

How much rent you’ll be paying

Your responsibilities (like keeping the property clean and reporting damage)

The landlord’s responsibilities (like maintaining the property in safe, liveable condition)

Tip: Always read the lease carefully before signing. If something doesn’t make sense, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Breaching your lease could lead to eviction, so it’s important to understand your obligations from the start.

What’s a Rental Bond?

A rental bond is a security deposit - equal to four weeks' rent - paid at the start of your lease. It acts as insurance for the landlord in case you:

Damage the property

Break the lease

Leave it in poor condition

If you keep the place clean and damage-free, your bond will be refunded in full when you move out. Be sure to document the property’s condition with photos when you move in and out to avoid disputes.

Paying Rent

Rent is usually paid in advance and can be done in a variety of ways:

Electronic bank transfer

Cash (we will always give you a receipt)

Cheque

The landlord or property manager will keep a record of every payment, but it’s a good idea to keep your own records too.

Missed a payment? If something unexpected happens and you can’t pay rent on time, communicate immediately. In some cases, repayment plans can be arranged, but it’s important to act before you fall too far behind, non-payment for a certain period (outlined in your lease) can result in eviction.

Leaving the Property

Whether your lease is up or you need to move out early, communication is key.

Let your landlord or property manager know as early as possible. If you're ending the lease early, you may be responsible for break fees or helping find a new tenant (depending on the terms of your agreement).

Before you go:

Clean the property thoroughly

Fix any damage

Return all keys

Do a final inspection with the landlord or property manager

Doing this ensures a smoother handover and maximizes the chance of getting your full bond back.

Final Tips for First-Time Tenants

Inspect everything before you move in and document it

Get renters insurance (it protects your belongings!)

Understand your rights and responsibilities

Stay on top of payments and communication

Treat the place like your own - because for the time being, it is

Moving into your first rental home is a huge step toward independence, and while it can seem complicated, it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a solid understanding of the rental process and open communication with your landlord or property manager, you’ll be ready to make your new place feel like home in no time.

Written with assistance from ChatGPT