Imagine what it would be like to not feel comfortable in your own home or feeling as though you have to hide from your landlord. Stressful situations like this occur every day. In order to create a stress-free home for yourself when renting, you need to learn how to build a great relationship with your landlord.
Check the Landlord’s Reputation Prior to Renting
One of the best ways to prevent yourself from renting an apartment you won’t be comfortable in is to do your research before you rent. If you find a prospective apartment, you may want to jump at the opportunity to rent, especially if you live in an area where good apartments are hard to come by. However, before you rent, ask other tenants about the landlord. If you find a lot of complaints, you will want to steer clear and look for an apartment elsewhere. There will always be some landlords that no matter how hard you try, you won’t be able to get along with them.
Be Friendly and Respectful to Your Landlord
The best way for anyone to build and maintain a healthy relationship with their landlord is to be friendly and respectful to them. There is, however, a fine line between friendly and too friendly. Do not expect to move in and become best friends so that they will look the other way if your rent is late or you do not follow the rules of the building. Be respectful and friendly because you want to create a home where there is the least amount of stress as possible.
Pay Your Rent on Time and Reporting Issues in a Timely Manner
You will also build a much better relationship with your landlord if you pay your rent in a timely manner. No landlord wants to have to hunt you down or stalk you to get what is rightfully theirs. Paying on time or early will go a long way in building your relationship. You also want to make sure that you report any issues to them as quickly as possible. If you discover a small water leak, report it immediately to them. Waiting too long could cost them thousands of dollars in damage. You may not want to bother them with such a small issue, but they will appreciate it if it saves them money.