How Long Does It Take To Move When Renting?
Moving house is a big task, with many things to consider and finalise before the big day. The length of time it takes to finalise a rental can take anywhere from a week to a month, depending on multiple factors, for example how quickly the landlord can get the property ready or how long it takes agents or the landlord to get the tenancy agreement sorted. It can be a bit overwhelming, but that’s why we’ve created this guide. When everything’s laid out in front of you, we think you’ll find it easier to secure your dream rental, fuss free.
How long does it take to move into a rental property?
On average, it takes anywhere from 30 to 60 days to move house when you’re renting. Of course, the time-frame can vary due to a number of different factors, and it can take as little as one day. Unlike the house-buying process, renting a home is more straightforward.
What should I prepare when moving into a rental property?
It is absolutely vital that you are financially prepared to make the rent and permitted payments on time. Keep in mind that once the landlord has decided to move ahead with you as a tenant, you will need to pay fees to set up your tenancy in order to cover the cost of references, credit checks and organising your rental. Additionally, before you move in you will also be expected to pay a security deposit, alongside one month’s rent in advance of your move. The point of these initial checks are to establish whether or not you will be able to afford the rent and be a good tenant.
Another thing to consider before making the move into the rental market is how long you want your tenancy to last. In general, a tenancy usually lasts a minimum of six months. However, if you’re not sure how long you’ll want to be renting for you can ask for the tenancy to be extended. There are costs involved with prolonging your fixed term tenancy agreement, so be sure to check this out first.
Finally, make sure you have all the documents that your agent will need to confirm your identity. These include: immigration status, credit history and on occasion, your employment status. This will speed up the process and get you well on your way to securing your rental.
Time to understand your finances and ensure you have necessary documents: 7-14 days
What features are most important to me in a rental property?
There are also a myriad of things to keep in consideration when you are beginning to visit rental properties. It is important to think about your current lifestyle and what would suit you best in a rental house. For example, do you have a car and need off street parking or a garage? Do you own lots of furniture and need an unfurnished rental, or own a little so part-furnished would be better? Have you just left university and have no furniture so need a fully furnished property? If you do choose a furnished or part furnished property, you will need to look after the furniture or you will end up losing some or all of your deposit to cover damage. Do you want or need a garden for yourself, children or pets? The list is personal and seemingly endless but it’s important you take the time to consider what you require.
Once you’ve decided on the type of rental you want, it’s time to start the search! We have plenty of properties to rent here at Mashroom. See one you like? It’s time to arrange a viewing.
The only way to truly get a feel for a property is to see it in the flesh at a viewing. You can arrange viewings through the website that the property is listed on, or you can ask the branch renting out the property. Lots of letting agents nowadays offer video tours and virtual viewings so that you can better understand a property before you even take a step inside! If a property ticks all the boxes, you can go ahead and make an offer.
Time to browse properties, arrange viewings and make an offer: 7-21 days
How long do reference checks take?
In short, the faster you fill out the forms, the quicker the process will be. Most reference checks are now completed digitally these days, so shouldn’t take longer than 48 hours to be finalised once you have given the agent your documents.
Time for referencing: 2 days
How long does it take to sign the tenancy agreement?
It takes a couple of hours to read through, understand and sign the tenancy agreement, however it is sometimes helpful to get someone else to have a read too. Of course, first the agent/ landlord needs to put the agreement together. It is therefore advised that you give yourself a week to receive, read and sign the tenancy agreement.
Time for signing the tenancy agreement: 7 days
When should I arrange removal services?
When you’re finally ready to move, you’ll most probably need a removal company to help you transport your items to your new abode. Make sure you contact a company well in advance if this is the case. If you’re moving into a fully-furnished home, this is slightly easier, and you may not need a removal company. In this case, it is possible to hire a small van and transport your own belongings. If however, you need to move all your furniture it is recommended that you hire some professional help.
It is worth giving yourself some flexibility to allow yourself the best chance of moving out of your current property, moving into your new one, and organising removal services all on the same day. It’s therefore worth giving yourself at least a week for this step.
Time for organising removal services and moving into the property: 7-14 days
Moving into a rental requires a lot of planning, but it doesn’t have to be too drawn out or stressful. Ensure that you’re organised and clear about what kind of property you’re looking for and it can be a fantastic way to inch onto the property ladder.
Average total time to move into a rental: 30-60 days
