Crafting a Budget: Your Guide to Smart Renting

Navigating the rental market isn’t just about finding the perfect place to call home. It’s also about crafting a well-planned budget that allows you to manage your finances effectively. Rent might take the largest chunk out of your monthly income, but there are additional costs associated with renting that can catch you off guard if not accounted for. Here’s how to create a comprehensive budget for your rental:

1. Calculate Your Monthly Rent: As a general rule of thumb, your rent shouldn’t exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. This ensures that your rental remains affordable and doesn’t strain your finances.

2. Factor in Utility Costs: Not all rentals include utilities in the rent price. You’ll need to estimate costs for electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable, and factor these into your budget.

3. Consider Renters Insurance: Renters insurance is an affordable and wise investment. It offers protection for your personal belongings and can save you from hefty costs in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

4. Account for Moving Expenses: Moving can be expensive. Save for truck rental, packing supplies, and potential professional movers to ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

5. Set Aside Funds for Initial Deposits: Be prepared for initial costs like security deposits, pet deposits, or first and last month’s rent upfront. These can add up, so it’s important to have these funds ready.

6. Prepare for Maintenance and Household Supplies: While major repairs are typically the landlord’s responsibility, you’ll need funds for minor repairs and daily supplies.

7. Budget for Parking and Transport: If parking isn’t included, you may need to budget for parking fees or public transportation costs.

8. Create an Emergency Fund: Aim to have a safety net for unexpected expenses or financial emergencies. This can give you peace of mind and financial stability.

Crafting a detailed budget for your rental ensures you’re financially prepared for both expected and unexpected costs. By accounting for all potential expenses, you can enjoy your rental experience with peace of mind, knowing your finances are in order.

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Finding a mortgage

Buying a house is a massive investment and getting it just slightly wrong can be costly. Unless you have big savings, chances are you’re going to have to get a mortgage. It’s a loan secured against the property which means if you can’t meet the repayments the lender may repossess your home and sell it to get their money back.

The better you understand mortgages and everything to do with them, the better armed you will be to get the very best deal. With MMR in place, you’ll need to review your finances themselves before approaching possible lenders to see whether you can afford the monthly payments now and if interest rates go up, which they will…

What is MMR?

When it comes to finding a mortgage you have several options: mortgage brokers, individual banks or searching online. Again, it’s important to do your research. Searching online first, gives you a good idea of what’s available, but an independent mortgage broker can provide a more in-depth search and help you through the process. Being independent holds great value as they are not bias to any particular lenders or deals, they will give you their honest opinion and take away the stress of working your way through the mortgage market, they work for you to find you the best package to suit your requirements.

For more information on the current mortgage rules and deals, contact your local branch today to arrange an appointment.

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