As you begin to look for rentals in the Arlington area, here a few tips for making the rental process smooth and easy...
1. Limit the number of roommates. I have been receiving a lot of call for 3 or 4 roommates looking for one big rental to get the cost down for each person. Although the economies of scale mindset is right, this rarely works. 3 or 4 bedroom rentals will either be penthouses or townhomes. Both penthouses and townhomes are usually VERY upscale, which mean the price is much higher than a 2 bedroom split between two people. Also, owners are VERY reluctant to renting out their property to a handful of unrelated roommates. Even though you claim you are mature young professionals, having 4 people living in one property has a much higher chance of damage, drama, and potential problems.
2. Don't buy a pet. Your 80 lb. dog might be the sweetest thing ever, but having an animal decreases your options by about 80%. Firstly, buildings usually have a strict weight and number requirement for pets. On top of that, owner usually won't allow pets from the start just to eliminate any potential damage or complaints with their unit. Owners know they will be able to rent out their condo easily, and they don't have to settle for the potential pet damage.
3. Don't look too far ahead. I have been getting a lot of calls with people wanting to see what was available for August-September time frames. Condos are rented out VERY quickly in this area, and tenants usually only need to give a 30 day notice before vacating. With that being said, anything that is available right now will most likely be rented quickly, and for a move-in time frame much quicker. Since owners know that they will be able to rent out their condo quickly, they know they don't need to hold the condo for someone with a further out move-in time frame.
I know this might sound harsh, but it is the truth. It's a landlord's world out there right now, and potential tenants need to do everything they can to make themselves most appealing!
