Finding the "Perfect Property" to Rent

We all have our own thoughts on what makes the "perfect property" to call home. Those in the market to buy will tell you they know EXACTLY what they want and where they want to buy.

But how often do we speak to people who have bought and they tell you it's "not exactly what we wanted, but we love it"? From my experience it's more often than not.

The same goes with renting.

I can't recall one tenant I've either met or worked with in the past 6 years (that's a lot of tenants) who moved into a property that ticked every single "Wish List" box.

Having a Wish List is a great starting point. In fact, it's a must.

Suburb choice is generally the first consideration. Then write a list of all the things you would love your new place to include, before spending some time considering what are "must haves" and "nice to haves".

Keeping an open mind about the suburb you want to reside in, can have some surprising results. I recently worked with lovely clients who had their hearts set on a small house in Collingwood, Fitzroy North or Prahran. They wanted to immerse themselves in the "community feel" of these suburbs. A chance visit to Kensington aroused their curiosity. Described as, "a village by the city, Kensington boasts an understated charm with a laid back vibe." Several inspections later and my clients were approved on a period house they fell in love with.

Another family were focused on Kensington, Flemington and Ascot Vale, with easy access to their business their main consideration. However, a house in Moonee Ponds has become their new home - slightly longer travel time to work, but a house that ticked every other box for them.

If living in Pascoe Vale South rather than Essendon was going to secure you a similar (or slightly better) property for $30 less a week would this be a consideration?

Be open minded too about your "negotiables" and "not-negotiables" - sometimes it can be the difference between securing a property and not. For example, can a large shed substitute for a garage? Are you prepared to accept cooling in the living room and main bedroom but not in the rest of the property? Will a park at the end of the street make up for a smaller yard?

The lack of a dishwasher almost caused a recent client to walk away from a property. However, when we weighed up the absent dishwasher against everything else the property offered, he realised it was the only thing not on his list. And he was thrilled when approved for the property.

The perfect property does exist, sometimes it's just a matter of being prepared to make subtle compromises.