Finding a nice apartment for rent in Dublin now is very difficult. Since August 2010, there are very few apartments available for rent for hundreds of interested applicants. Group viewings are the norm. Online advertisements for apartments are gone within hours. It’s a landlords’ and landladies’ market where no negotiation is accepted. Here are some tips to help you navigate these perilous waters.
1. Secure it properly
Typically, a security deposit is required when signing the lease. These days, that’s too late. If you want to win your place in the competition, bring the deposit to the first viewing.
2. Money talk, it’s the bottom line
You’re not the only one with the deposit in your pocket. Other people can’t wait to give it to the flat owner should they like the place. Have a little extra and be prepared to offer a higher deposit on the spot.
3. Do your homework, get those references and send them by email
The best apartments are never viewed. They are taken as seen on the web. If you like the flat, contact the landlords/ landladies and offer to send your references and the deposit online. Hand signed references from previous landlords/ landladies are the best.
4. Be on time, be proactive
Even better, come 15 minutes early. This will not only show your interest, but will make the difference between you and the 6 other people with the same interest, money and references as yours.
5. Make them remember you, but not in a bad way
Some landlords/ landladies or agents prefer to take the references first and make the decision later. In this case, make your personality shine through during the conversation. Although competitive, it’s a human business after all and good impressions win apartments.
6. Don’t mind the other 30 people viewing the apartment with you
Pretend that you’re the only person in the room. Check everything you want to check and see. Ask all the questions on your checklist. Take your time. This is your only opportunity to gather info for your decision and practice your group communication skills.
7. Patience, it can take time
If you’re really fussy about your dream place for living, it can take time to find it, especially because there’s so few of them. You need to be ready to move in the next day or in six months. Detach from any delays.
8. Follow the web, act immediately
Set up email alerts for new apartments in your location or check the web every hour. Checking the classifieds once a day is not enough. There are hundreds of people like you waiting for their ideal apartment who sit on the ads all day long.
9. Decide on the spot, just take it or leave it
For many, this is the hardest part. However hard, the viewing is the only time where you can make your choice. You can’t go home and think about it. There’s no time for such luxury because the apartment will be gone tomorrow.
10. Flexibility
Above all, be ready to make the most unusual compromises about your next flat. It helps if you think of it as an opportunity to exercise your flexibility and that you will come stronger out of it.