Renting in California-Tips to the renters or those looking to rent.

I am a property manager, and thought I would share a few tips for when you begin looking. I am also a renter and I recently went through this process. Hopefully this will help! I will try to come back with more tips for being a renter in California.

Give yourself enough time to begin your apartment/house hunting. Most agreements require at least a 30 day written notice (verify with your managers). If a notice to vacate is served to you, its likely a 30 or 60 day notice. 30 or 60 days, as soon as you know make a game plan.

Put together a budget, keep in mind move in costs can get costly with the first month rent & the SECURITY DEPOSIT (this is not last months rent). Be realistic about how much you can afford, don't stretch yourself too thin just to live in luxury.

If you are not already familiar with the areas you are looking, make sure you do your own research. Whomever is renting you the place cannot really answer much on the neighborhoods. They are there to simply show you the place and get it rented.

There are many rental apps available, I suggest narrowing it down to using 1 or 2 of these apps. You can stop by most management company offices and ask for their rental listings, or do it the old school by driving around looking for "For Rent" sign.

Try to reach a live person to obtain the following info; 1. Criteria qualification; 2. Utilities included; 3. Parking included; 4. Total move in cost; 5. Move in date; 6. Are there are any applications; 7. Ask for a tour date.

When deciding to apply, remember each application can cost anywhere from $25-$75. It can get expensive if you are submitting apps for multiple units. Not many companies will allow you to provide your own credit reports and each time your credit report is pulled it will ding it.

Apply and submit all the required documentation requested by the management company or owner. This will speed up the verification process to determine an approval or denial. Approvals are always good news, but the denials can be a bummer.

Don't be discouraged if it is a no. Ask the reason for being denied, if they have another unit similar to the one you applied for or if any other units will be available. There also could be a chance the approved applicant doesn't work out.

Move in day- Do your walkthrough with the manager. Take photos and notes for your records. Report any issues immediately (via email, always keep a paper trail). Pay rent on time. Be a good neighbor. Enjoy your new place!