Choosing a house to rent is not easy. First, you need to find a one that fits your budget and lifestyle. Another minor issue is the negotiation of a suffocating, busy open inspection. Stop and think about how little time each check gives you, and you start to understand how difficult it is to find the right lease.

But that's the way it is. That's why we made a simple list to find rental properties before signing a lease.

1. Assess security

View deadlocks, window locks, and other security features. The level of security can have a huge impact on your insurance costs.
Before checking, be sure to check with your insurance company which security features will affect your policy, so you know what to watch out for.

2. Looking for storage options

Storage space can be expensive, especially if you later moved to a home that doesn't need it. When you are walking around potential new rents, find some places to store your bike, skis or books, and then ask yourself, “Is there enough internal and external storage to store all my important items?” Also consider whether there is enough room space, linen space, and areas for storing bulky items such as brooms and vacuum cleaners.

3. Check overall cleanliness

Many rental properties are likely to be rented under the same conditions as you check them. So, if there is a lot of rubbish in the shed, the garden needs weeding, ask the broker whether these problems will be resolved before the check-in date.

4. Understanding heating

Ask the agent's property what heating and cooling systems are available, find out which specific rooms are available for these technologies, and make sure they work. If you find a problem, ask if and when.

5. Measuring space

Don't be afraid to take out the tape measure in the open place, because this is the best way to determine if your precious table and antique bed can pass through the door of your potential new home.

6. Check the location of the power point

The location of the TV antenna, power outlet, phone, and Foxtel outlets can affect how you place your home. So make sure you are happy with their positioning.

7. Check if there is enough space for white items

Check if there is enough room in the kitchen to put the fridge, dishwasher and other appliances you like on the bench. See if your washing machine and dryer can also be placed in the laundry room or ask if they are with the hotel. If you want to drip your clothes, make sure you have enough room in the laundry room.

8. Don't forget the garden

Ask if the apartment or house is equipped with a gardener. If not, look at what kind of maintenance is needed in the garden. If you happen to have a green thumb and want to build a vegetable garden, ask if you can do it too.

9. Ask about gas and electricity

Do you like gasoline or electricity? This is really a personal choice. Some people like gas stoves, while others like induction stoves. Whatever you like, be sure what you can find.