not sure how i should approach the situation if its wise to rent directly through owner? Any info, tips or experiences would be much appreciated. Am going to arrange to inspect but not sure what i should and shouldnt ask, how do i know they are decent people as the granny flat is attached to the house. Any tips please! Its for me and my daughter so i want to make sure its safe.
Make sure you get a receipt for every payment you make and keep it.
Legally if you pay a bond the landlord must submit it to the State Rental Bond board which is usually part of the Dept of Fair Trading in your State.
Not that it really matters though,as long as you get a receipt for any payments you make to him.
Obviously check to see if the place is clean,check to see what sort of people the owners are,is there beer cans lying around etc.
Do they look ok,does the surroundings look ok.
Do they have pets that could disturb you,big dogs etc.
Is there enough privacy for you and your daughter ?
Look at where the windows are,is there curtains,where are the windows facing?
If you have a car,where can you park it?
Ask if there is a bond ?
How about rent,how many weeks in advance ?
Do they want you to sign a lease,then in that case your bond must be submitted to the State rental board.
How long notice do you have to give to move out ?
Is the electrcity a separate bill ?
Is there any other expenses or just the rent ?
Where is the laundry ?
What about clothes line?
Now,if you pay a bond,usually 4 weeks rent,then you should note and get the owner to sign it,ANY damage ,such as stains on carpets,etc.
Having said all that,its far better you go with a polite friendly attitude rather than be distrustful of them,because they are probaly sussing you out more and more worried who they are going to get living behind there house.