Top 10 things to look for in a property rental

Looking for a new rental property in Cyprus can be a daunting prospect. There are so many things to consider, each one depending on your individual circumstances and preferences. Having a good idea of your non-negotiables is a start, but it's easy to overlook points that can make or break your rental dream further down the line. 

This week we offer 10 things to consider when scouring the market for your next rental property in Cyprus.

What do you want your rental property in Cyprus to look and feel like?

Whilst possibly a bit vague, understanding the “vibe” of a property when you walk in has a strong impact on how you will move forward. If your gut is telling you something may be off, even though from first glance all is perfect, then there’s a good chance it's not for you. 

Likewise, when walking through the door, if something rises up in you and the excitement starts to overflow, you’ve probably just found your new home. 

It helps to visit a property more than once to make sure you feel the same way though. After all, if this is going to be your home, you want to make sure it feels like it. 

What’s the lighting like in the rental property? 
Photo by Ann poan from Pexels

Bright natural light, especially throughout the day, can make a property seem a lot more open, welcoming and clean. Look for which way the property faces, what kind of windows and doors are in place, as well as how and where the light fittings are installed. If possible, try visiting the property at different times of the day to gauge light levels, and how it will light up after dusk to make sure you're living comfortably no matter the season. 

Is there sufficient parking? 

Luckily, Cyprus has a fairly reliable public transport system, however if you own a car, parking is going to be a necessity. A lot of Cyprus property rentals come with off street parking, or have large amounts of space in the streets. However it's good to check with landlords and even previous tenants to understand availability and whether or not any form of permit is required. 

 

Local Amenities

Unless you’re living in the more rural areas, you’re generally within 5-10 minutes of at least a small corner shop or tavern. However this isn’t always guaranteed. It pays to spend an afternoon walking the area you intend to rent in and doing some research. Are shops walking or driving distance? Where is the nearest doctor? Can I get all my groceries close by, or would I need to shop around several places? 

Does the rental property have the right location and views?

Either as an expat or a local, the chances you enjoy Cyprus so much, is because of access to the coast or the beautiful natural scenery. Most probably both. So when searching for your rental property, keep this in mind. A large floor space is quickly negated by views of brick walls and neighbours balconies. 

Do you need outdoor space? 
Photo by Askar Abayev from Pexels

You would think that with hundreds of kilometres of coastline and acre upon acre of mountains and forests, that private outdoors space would seem low on the list. However the term ‘private’ is exactly why it is. 

Think of hosting and entertainment potential, as well as having your own sense of privacy and a space to get away from the crowds, yet still enjoy the sun. 





 

How much storage do you need? 
Photo by Victoria Borodinova from Pexels

This is perhaps one of the most common requirements, no matter where you live or rent in the world, and Cyprus is no different. Especially if you are looking to rent as a family, and even more so if you have young children. Often garages can be offered up as additional storage, if maintained adequately by owners. If you are looking for ideas, check out one of our other blogs, where we provide some creative storage solutions. 

Does the rental property in Cyprus include white goods and other appliances? 

Very few tenants look to purchase their own fridges, microwaves or washing machines unless they are one step away from owning their own property. The hassle and possibility of damage to goods during transit are oftentimes just too much of a risk.
 
When visiting rental properties in Cyprus, make sure to check the quality of the items, as well as the duration of the warranty, and if there are clauses in contracts regarding damage vs wear and tear. The last thing you want is to have to call on your landlord late on a Sunday because your fridge has stopped working. 

Who will cover the utilities and internet? 

Landlords will seldom cover the cost of the bills and/or broadband, although some will offer to include this in their monthly rental costs. However, to avoid issues surrounding excess charges or misuse, it's worth ensuring that everything has been set up prior to your occupancy, and communicating with the landlord about getting the bills in your name with the local municipality. 

This in turn takes stress off the landlord, and you can be sure that you are paying the correct amount. 

Look out for a cooperative landlord 

Last, but definitely not least. The landlord/tenant relationship has historically had a bad rap, but it doesn’t need to. As long as both parties are honest, and respectful towards the needs of the other, then there is no reason that you as a tenant wouldn’t  look to stay on in the property. Feeling that you are looked after and listened to provides confidence for you as a tenant, and safety in a long term agreement for the landlord. 

And where better to find your dream rental ticking all of the above boxes than at QuickLets Cyprus. Ideally located with a fantastic team of agents, why not look to contact us or come and visit us in branch to find your next dream rental property in Cyprus. 

Main blog photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash