RENTING IN THE HEIGHTS
By Adrivel Ruiz
Here we are again! It's the time of the year when many newcomers will arrive in this part of town. In my experience, many newcomers are new to the rental market in NYC. Today, I would like to share some advice on the process. Renting a place doesn't have to be traumatic, and it helps if you have the correct information and a professional agent to represent you with listings that match your requirements.
Once you've identified the listings of your interest, please be aware that most of the time, landlords will consider those applicants who will be moving in within four weeks before the lease starts.
An easy way to explain it is as follows:
If your moving date is on June 1st, then you must actively start looking or submit your application by May 1st. I know that it might give you some anxiety, but that's the proper time frame to start looking, find the place, and submit your package.
You want to work with a well-established agent with a good reputation, someone who specializes in the area you want to move to. It's crucial you share all your "must haves," expectations, financial details, and whether you have any pets with your agent and their level of importance to improve the quality of the showings. You want to be sure your time will not be mismanaged due to a lack of information. The more information your agent gets on those details, the better. It will make it easier to find your perfect home.
Let's say you have identified the place and are ready to apply; essentially, your agent will send you the application form and walk you through the process. A good agent will review your application package before sending it to the landlord to ensure everything is complete. Once dispatched, your agent will contact you with your results.
Your agent will guide you through the lease signing and explain how to submit your payment. Please be aware that most of the time, you will entrust the payment to your agent, and your agent will send the signed lease, your check, and any other pending documents to the landlord. An example of pending documents is the guarantor's riders. After closing your transaction, you will pay your regular rent directly to the landlord. Once completed, you will receive the contact information of your landlord and super. Most of the time, the superintendent is the person who will deliver the keys, not your agent.
I hope this brief explanation helps you understand the details and what to expect. You are always welcome to reach us at Sovereign Associates. Our firm has been operating for over 30 years, and we'll be pleased to assist you!!
