First-time renters

Saved up? Ready to rent? Here are some hints and tips on what to think about before you jump into the rental market.

Budget

Know what you can comfortably afford to pay in rent. You’ll also need to bear in mind all of the other bills that you will need to pay (Electricity, Food/TV/Internet/Phone etc.).

Generally when you move into a new place you will be asked for the first month’s rent in advance along with a deposit (often the equivalent of a month’s rent). Make sure you have enough saved for this so that you don’t run into any difficulty before you’ve even moved in.

Location, location, location

Once you’ve decided how much you can afford to spend it’s time to start looking. Before you begin the search you will need to decide what area you want to live in. Is it convenient to get to work, is parking included, are you near a public transport route? Make a list of everything you want and then you can begin to break down the areas that are potentially available to you.

Determine what you need versus what you want

While we’d all like a palace of our own to call home, practically it probably won’t happen. Be realistic. Do you need the ensuite? Underground parking? City Centre location? Or do you just want those things. If you want them and can afford them, then great. If not though, you can save some money by moving a little bit further out and scaling back on your desires.

Start your rental search

Now you know the area you can begin searching for accommodation.

On Daft.ie you can filter by the location, number of bedrooms, how much you are willing to spend, the number of bedrooms, whether you are close to public transport and also if parking is included etc.

Do not sign a lease without visiting the property

It may seem obvious but don’t part with your money or sign any paper work until you have visited the property. Images can be misleading, make sure you know exactly what it is you’re getting.

If something looks too good to be true, it probably is

Always be vigilant. Check out our post on accommodation scams.