So What is New with Income Property- for the Tenant

As a property manager in the Toronto - Barrie area, I have seen rentals galore. So what should you look for in Rental Properties. Here's a check list you can use BEFORE you go viewing.

• location, location, location - is it near transportation or major routes to work


• confirm that it IS or is NOT a basement apartment, listings will show something like "lower level", "ground floor", "walk out" If you don't mind a basement apartment then it doesn't matter. (I will blog later on the pros and cons of basement apartments)


• kitchen amenities, I can't count the number of so called kitchens created in places you wouldn't put a closet!


• you CAN negotiate the price. If it is listed at $950. try giving a lesser "written offer" with a deposit cheque (perhaps $900.). It is hard for the landlord to say no to something in writing that has money attached. (but don't try and go for 1/2 price!)
• Or you can ask for a small rebate if the landlord wants full pop. If you are dilegent with the rent payments, then he/she may be receptive to giving you back a rebate cheque at the end of the year (at Christmas when you need it most)
• There are so many rentals, it is not just a home buyers market but a RENTERS market as well.