What Does It Mean to Be a Good Renter?
Whether you’re taking a vacation to a pristine Florida beach and staying in someone’s home, searching for an apartment as a college student, or trying to find the perfect house for your family, renting is big business. According to statistics, the rental industry in the United States is booming, even as the real estate market declines. A recent Census Bureau report indicates that around 51% of all Americans are renting their permanent dwellings. Millions of dollars are spent each year by individuals utilizing rental properties for their dream vacations.
The challenge for most landlords, however, is finding good renters. Often, the rental industry—landlords and tenants alike—gets a bad rap. You frequently hear about property owners being slumlords, refusing to fix leaky toilets, or neglecting the upkeep of their homes. Conversely, property owners often complain about renters who do not pay their bills on time, fail to take care of the property, and leave a mess for the landlord to clean up when the lease ends. It’s true that when it comes to renting, there are both good and bad sides for landlords and tenants.
If you are looking for a rental, it’s essential to understand what it means to be a good renter. Being a good renter increases the likelihood that your landlord will appreciate your business and be more compassionate and helpful regarding property upkeep. For instance, if you know your rent will be short one month, your landlord is more likely to work with you if the home is clean and well-maintained, rather than if it appears neglected.
Being a good renter fundamentally comes down to respect. If you are renting a beach house or a family home, you should respect the fact that someone is allowing you to live in their property for a fee. This includes taking care of the property and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Here are some further tips for being a good renter:
Treat the place as if it were your own. If you wouldn’t shoot a BB gun at the walls in your own home, don’t do it in someone else’s. If the toilet begins to leak—something that could eventually rot the floor—take action. Whether you call the landlord to inform them or attempt a fix yourself, addressing issues promptly is crucial. If you break something, repair it quickly. This is your temporary home, and the way you treat it reflects on you.
Always ask before performing work. Don’t expect a landlord to reimburse you for paint simply because you don’t like the bathroom color. Similarly, don’t assume they will be thrilled if you add a hall closet or redo the foyer floors. Asking permission before making any changes, even if they seem like upgrades, is polite and respectful.
Maintain the exterior. Landlords often face criticism if the outside of their property is messy. Typically, the local authority will send a notice to the landlord, not you, if the grass isn’t maintained or there’s excess trash in the yard. Moreover, if a tenant allows the exterior of a home to appear shabby, it can agitate the neighbors and reflect poorly on the landlord. Depending on your lease agreement, you should make an effort to keep the outside looking clean and orderly.
Pay your rent on time. If you anticipate being late or falling short on a payment, don’t wait until the due date or hide for several days to avoid your landlord. Keep them informed if problems arise. They may work with you if you are honest and upfront. Most landlords appreciate tenants who communicate well.
Report problems quickly. You may not be responsible for fixing issues, but allowing a roof to leak, a faucet to drip, or an electrical outlet to spark can lead to more significant—and more expensive—problems over time. Be proactive. After all, you are the one living there, and you know what needs to be fixed.
Leave the place in good condition. Whether it’s a vacation rental or a home you’ve lived in for years, leave it in rentable condition. Not only will this help you get your deposit back, but it will also provide a positive reference for future rentals. Remember, landlords communicate with one another and will share their experiences. Leaving a mess for someone else to clean up is simply rude.
Ultimately, you should treat rental properties as if they were your own. Doing so demonstrates respect for others and for yourself. Renting is a privilege, and the landlord is doing you a favor. Your actions should reflect gratitude and respect.
