When choosing where to rent, there are lots to consider. After all, this will be the place you will call home until your lease expires.
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According to Raine & Horne, your car (or lack of) can play an important part in your decision.
One new phenomenon is carsharing. It gives motorists access to cars and is an alternative to vehicle ownership.
So, what does this mean for tenants? Put simply, if you opt for carsharing, then you won't need to rent an apartment with a garage or car space. By using carsharing, you can save on motoring costs, as well as weekly rent, as an apartment without parking should, in theory, be more affordable.
Likewise, if you don't drive or prefer public transport, a car space is redundant.
If you do have a vehicle, will an open-air car space be enough? Or do you prefer an apartment with a garage or underground parking to protect your pride and joy?
Alternatively, the decision-making could involve a selection between an apartment with a linen cupboard, against a unit with a pantry or more storage space.
Many tenants also deem a balcony or deck as 'must-haves'. The reality is they use this outdoor space relatively infrequently, particularly in colder months. Likewise, there are plenty of tenants in high-rise apartment blocks paying for gyms and pools they rarely use.
If you opt for a house with a pool, weigh up whether you are going to use it and if you can negotiate maintenance as part of the lease. Remember, you will still be cleaning the pool in winter when only polar bears can take to icy waters.
