Finding a Home
Here are a few other things to think about while you are looking for a place to rent.
Is the tenancy agreement month-to-month or for a fixed length of time?
Is a security or pet damage deposit required? If so, how much is it?
Are things like parking, storage, laundry or utilities included? If not, how much
extra is it?
What are the rules of the building or property? Are pets allowed (if you have
one)?
This can be a lot to think about while you are going to viewings. Page 25 has a list
that you can fill out when you are viewing rentals. Fill it out for each place you see
so that you can easily go back and compare them. This list can also be found
online at:
http://www.fcac-acfc.gc.ca/Eng/forConsumers/lifeEvents/movingOut/Pages/
StartUpE-Grillede.aspx
Room-mates or Going Solo – How to Decide?
Living on your own can be expensive. Having a
roommate (or more than one) can help lower your
living expenses since you share the rent, utilities
and other household expenses.
Finding the right roommate and deciding on your
living arrangements can be part of the fun of
moving out on your own—but it can also be a
hassle. Write down what you are looking for in a
roommate to help you make up your mind about
whether someone would be a good fit.
Photo credit Joris_Louwes via Visualhunt CC BY
If you decide to live with a roommate or roommates, first work out an agreement on
your living arrangements and each person’s responsibilities. For example, how will
rent and other costs be divided? How will cleaning duties be shared? What if
someone is gone from the residence for a length of time?
Even if there is an agreement on living arrangements, be sure you understand your
rights and responsibilities. For example, if your name appears on the lease or the
account for utilities or other services, but your roommate is responsible for making
the payment; you will still be held responsible in case of a missed or late payment.
Your credit rating could be affected and the information could show up on your
credit report for several years. The following link has information on credit
reports.http://www.fcac-acfc.gc.ca/eng/resources/publications/creditLoans/Pages/
Understa-Comprend.aspx
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