Renters

Are you searching for a home in the Stuart area you can lease, rather than buy? Perhaps you are a seasonal renter, are only going to be in the area for a short time or not looking to buy right now? I can help you through the entire process of identifying and Rentals acquiring the rental that best fits your needs.

As one of the most recognized REALTORS® offering rental services in the Stuart, Florida area, I list, sell and rent residential real estate in Stuart, Palm City, Hobe Sound, Jensen Beach and Port St. Lucie. I provide personalized, caring service to help you find the best rental in the shortest time and with the least amount of stress!

Tips for Renters

Selecting the right rental home and finding a property that meets your needs and budget can be complicated. Here are some tips to help you determine what’s most important to you and help you work your way through the rental process.

Assessing Your Needs Carefully assessing your needs and knowing what to look for and what to avoid is the key to success in finding a rental home. Your Real Estate Agent can provide detailed information on target areas prior to your home finding trip, helping you maximize your time and efforts.

One of the most important steps in finding your new home is knowing exactly how much rent you can afford. Your rent should be no more than 30 percent of your gross monthly income (although there are exceptions to this rule).

It is also important to remember that renters are typically required to pay a security deposit (usually one month’s rent) in addition to the first month’s rent prior to move-in. Additionally, some renters are required to pay their last month’s rent in advance. This is usually the case when renting a home from a private owner. A rental application fee, which can cost between $35 to $100 to process, is often required as well. If there is a home owners association you can expect to pay an application fee ranging from $50 to $200. Pet owners will also have to contend with additional security deposits and/or nonrefundable pet fees in the neighborhood of $250 or more for each dog or cat.

For Landlords: Preparing Your Unit to Rent

It may seem obvious but having a bright and clean rental will result in a quicker sale and a better tenant! For seasonal rentals I recommend a thorough cleaning before we begin showing the unit. You should also plan on another cleaning before your tenant arrives, especially if it has been vacant for a while. Bathrooms need to be spotless and free of mold and grime. Carpets may also need shampooing. You may want to consider a cleaning service for scheduled visits – local cleaning companies charge about $100.00 for a typical 2/2 condo or villa (basic service).

Clutter and personal items should be removed or stored in a secure area. You should also try to address any maintenance needs before showings begin. If upholstered furniture is showing its age, consider having it cleaned or replaced.

Also, consider a fresh paint job if the walls are dingy or showing wear and tear. This is very important for vacant annual rentals to help move them quickly.

For seasonal rentals, you should provide your tenants a list of contact numbers (including yours) for service emergencies. Include information about anything that pertains to your unit.

Listing Your Rental

Experience our value-added rental services! We list single family homes for rent, condominiums for rent, townhouses for rent and seasonal or short term home rentals. Here’s what we do when you list your property for rent (full service listing agreement required):

-Evaluate the rental potential of your property

-Create a Web page featuring your rental

-Exposure on multiple Web sites

-MLS and Realtor.com

-Finding a tenant

-Comprehensive tenant screening

-Collect advance deposits

-Lease preparation

-No fee until we rent your property

Fee Schedule:

10% commission for annual rentals

15% commission for seasonal rentals