Saturday, December 1, 2012

What should I look out for in renting a seasonal property in Florida?

Q. MN resident considering renting a home in The Villages Fl January through March 2008. Haven't done this before. Concerned about getting scammed. A deposit of significant upfront money seems to be the norm. What steps should I take to make sure that I am getting involved with a reputable renter and that the property is what it is advertised to be? Any other tips on how to avoid disaster would be appreciated.

A. While I know of many people that have happy rented from private owners directly. Unless you have a local contact that can verify that you are dealing with the actual owner, I would recommend that you go through one of the local real estate companies, such as "The Villages Hometown Property Management". I and other people I've talked to have used them and were happy with their service. This in no way implies that you would not be even happier with another firm or dealing directly with an owner.


How do you cope with living on a low income?
Q. Just wondering if anyone has tips on how to live on a low income. I'm a student which prevents me from working as much as I'd like, and I am renting an apartment with my boyfriend so rent is only $340 a month. And then of course there are other expenses, food, utilities, etc. I make about $1,400 a month.

A. Make an inventory of where you and your boyfriend are spending your budget. Have one weekend set aside for no expenditures of money. Call it by your own name: Spartan weekend, Poverty Plus weekend. Try to make fun of less. Sounds a bit zany but I think it will be a plan you will find works for your problem. Beer? Each pays for "his" own!!


Could anyone provide tips on renting a house?
Q. I've always been an apartment dweller and was wondering what thing to look for or ask about when renting a house? Is the landlord usually responsible for yardwork? Are the lease lengths the same as apartments?

A. Your and the landlords responsibility would be spelled out in the lease or rental agreement. Most landlords use the month to month rental agreements as oppose to a lease. Leases are a pain for all concerned and might cost legal fees to break on the part of both parties.

On a month to month tenancy both are required to give a 30 day notice if one of the signers are
unhappy.

In the case where the landlord is responsible for the landscape this is normally included in the rent. Most tenants would want to do this themselves as it would be less expensive and they have control over when this activity will take place.

I have used both methods and indicated that if the tenant want to take care of the landscape,mowing is require twice a month with the trimming of all and any bushes done on a monthly basis. For the elderly they might not want to have anything to do with the landscape, therefore would be willing to pay for this service.

I hope this has been of some benefit to you, good luck.


"FIGHT ON"


what is the difference between a room rental or a room mate?
Q. When you rent a room do you have use of the whole house? Or get just a room? Or a room with kitchen privalidges? I want to rent a room in my house but not sure what a room rental consistes of. Any tips on what to bewear of when renting a room in a private house? I rented apartments but never a room in my house. Thank you in advance for your help.

A. Usually you rent a room with kitchen, and of course a private bath or use of shared bath privileges. You can invite the person to watch television if they like, it is up to you. I rented a room out in my home twice. I let them use my home pretty much as their home. My room was the only off limit room. They did however have to keep everything cleaned up after themselves. Sometimes if you do let them have free reign of the house, they will help with the housecleaning, and you will have to make sure this is an understanding. Be sure to put everything in writing for a renter's agreement such as no company after a certain time and no loud music, and under no circumstances are they to let another person start staying with them overnight unless you agree to maybe one night a week, etc. You can also get unannounced guests, so you need to address this issue also. Also invest in a lock that you can lock on the outside of your bedroom door, and any other bedrooms you do not want people to go into. Not so much for the renter, but visitors who may come while you are gone.





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