A Simple Guide to Renting Surrey Apartments, British Columbia

Renting an apartment in Surrey can be a no-brainer experience or a living hell, and both outcomes generally depend on whether or not you have followed good guidelines. Here are some of the simple advices on avoiding a few common pitfalls and renting wisely.

• Here, unfurnished apartments are usually available for a minimum of a year period, so you will be required to sign a lease for that period.
• Leases usually start on the 1^st of every month and occasionally on 15^th of the month.
• The apartment owner will ask for a security deposit of two week’s rent. If you have a furry friend (your pet), then you will be expected to pay be a pet deposit of another two week’s rent.
• You must check what is included in the rent and what is not. In most cases, you pay for the electricity, water and other utilities.
• Condition inspection at the start and end of the tenancy is must. The apartment owner may deduct money from your security deposit for damage or end of lease cleaning services - with your agreement.
• Many building owners may not allow pets in the building premises. Some may also not allow children.

• Furnished apartments are more expensive than unfurnished ones, as they include some or all of your utilities.
• Rent often includes things such as furniture, electricity, water, TV and internet. Confirm from the landlord about what utilities are included in the rent.
• Rental periods can begin on any day and can be for any length of time, as agreed by you and your landlord in the contract. Generally, the minimum period will be a month or two.

• Every year, many new comers in Surrey face a major shortage of housing. In this storm, it gets hard to find rentals, with some areas having 1% vacancy rates or lower. Arrive in the city a little earlier, so that you may get some time to find a good place. If your plans are to rent for a long term, it is worth residing in an unfurnished apartment initially, so that you have time to find an appropriate long term rental.
• Beware of the scams on internet sites and trust reliable sources such as Mainstreet Equity Corp. to find Surrey Apartments.
• Do not pay rent in advance unless you have verified the agent or landlord’s details.
• While renting, you should sign a Residential Tenancy Agreement (RTA). This is a standard lease agreement. You can get the form from the Residential Tenancy Office.
• As per the RTA Act, apartment rent can be increased every year, but for that, your landlord has to send a notice, 90 days prior to inform you about any changes in the rent.
• Also, look out for the restrictions and rules imposed by some apartment building complexes. For instance pet restrictions are common, but you may also find age restrictions.

So, stay cautious and follow the above mentioned advices while your search for apartments in Surrey. Remember, Mainstreet Equity Corp. is always there to help you find a reliable apartment in Surrey.

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