Home For Rent: Making An Informed Decision

July 1st is fast approaching and it’s time to look for a new place to live. Voyer has a few pieces of advice to help you make an informed decision for your next move!

So you’ve made up your mind and are planning to move soon? Before heading off on the hunt for your dream apartment, it’s best to make sure you’re well prepared and know which key features to consider before signing a lease. Voyer has prepared this handy little checklist of questions to ask when you start visiting potential addresses!

First, have a look around…

Does the neighbourhood meet your lifestyle needs?

• Are there nearby shops and conveniences?
• Is it close to public transportation?
• Is parking an issue?
• Are you close to schools, daycares, parks, etc.?

Questions to ask the owner or property manager

Will you have access to a parking space?

If yes, does this come at an added cost? Is there guest parking?
 

Will you have access to secure storage?

If yes, does it come at added cost? Do you have a bike? Make sure to ask if there are bike racks available.
Is there storage space? Is it included in the rent? Is it secure?
 

Why is the current tenant leaving?

It’s important to know why the current tenant has decided to not renew their lease. Is it related to issues with the apartment or house?
 

Are pets allowed?

If you have a house pet, this question is mandatory! Also, if you suffer from severe allergies to certain house pets, and the current tenant has one, make sure to ask for a professional cleaning service before moving in.
 

What services are included in the rent?

Does the rent include heating, electricity, hot water, cable, Internet? If they aren’t included, make sure to ask which are needed (electric heating, natural gas, etc.) and what the monthly cost is for each service. This will help you plan your budget.
 

Is it permissible to conduct renovations to the property?

Do you have permission to paint the walls or conduct other improvements to the property and if so, will the owner cover the costs and/or labour?
 

Do you smoke?

Make sure smoking is permitted within the building.
 

Who is responsible for maintaining the building’s common areas?

Stairs, elevator, hallways, garbage chute and recycling, landscaping, snow removal, window cleaning, minor and major repairs, etc. It’s important to know who is responsible for these tasks and to have the contact information for this person, or the responsible entity.
 

Are appliances included?

Are fridge, stove, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer included? If not, don’t forget to measure the spaces reserved for these appliances.
 

Is there enough closet space?

Take note of all the storage areas in the home: closets, walk-ins, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, etc.
 

Are there enough electrical outlets and are they well situated?

Also check the condition of each outlet, locate the electrical panel, labeling of fuses, and various breakers, etc.
 

What are the specifics of the lease?

It’s essential to understand all the stipulations in the lease. Length of stay, terms and conditions, special requirements, etc. Do not hesitate to ask for additional information if anything isn’t clear.
 

Building Features to Consider

Are both common and private building areas in good shape?

Inspect the state of the walls, floors, elevators, doors, roof, basement, exterior façade, balconies and terraces, window seals, sound-proofing of walls and floors, levelness of floors, etc. Don’t be shy to ask the building’s age, when the last renovations were conducted, when the next ones are planned, insulation, ventilation and air conditioning system, etc.
 

Is the building secure?

Are the main entrances locked? Are the door locks new? Is the building equipped with working sprinklers and smoke detectors?
 

Does the building have recreational common areas?

Do you have access to a gym, pool, terrace, etc.?
 

Is it bright enough?

If natural light is important to you, ensure that fenestration is abundant and well oriented. Make sure also to check the state of light fixtures, their positioning, etc.
 

Are the finishes new and in good shape?

Pay special attention to floors, sinks, faucets, shower, bathtub, tiling, etc.
 

Did you know that Construction Voyer has properties for rent?

Construction Voyer has a wide selection of rental properties. Located in coveted sectors of Montreal’s North Shore, like Chomedey, Pont-Viau and Laval-des-Rapides, our 3 ½, 4 ½ and 5 ½ apartments for rent feature parking spaces as well as snow removal, concierge, maintenance and repair services. Affordable and featuring all the characteristics of a Voyer construction, our rental properties come equipped with modern and ergonomic kitchens, hardwood floors and balconies, on top of all the comforts of true sound-proofing and high-calibre insulation.

To find out more about Voyer rental services.

New rental project in the heart of Faubourg Boisbriand!

Construction Voyer is currently working on a housing complex of 149 rental units that will be located in Faubourg Boisbriand. The Lib Boisbriand will offer new 3 ½, 4 ½ and 5 ½ apartments designed specifically for a 55+ age demographic looking for an exceptional living environment focused on wellbeing.

The Lib Boisbriand also offers common areas that include a large salon with giant screen tv, billiard room, bistro, multifunction room, private dining room, business lounge, workout room, outdoor pool with hydro-massage jets, as well as a magnificent landscaped terrace equipped with a barbecue.

The Lib Boisbriand office is scheduled to open on April 9, 2016! For more information, don’t hesitate to contact our rental advisor Susan Tremblay at (450) 961-2333 or by email.

Find out more about the Lib Boisbriand rental project.