At Summit we know that the process of securing a home can put extra pressure on individuals and families. We have provided a step by step renting guide here to help make it easier.
Work out a budget
You’ll need to work out how much you can afford to pay each week for rent. This involves not only working out how much income you receive and your current commitments, but also allowing for power, phone, internet and any other bills you may receive as part of residing in a home. See also initial funds required below.
A handy budgeting tool can be found on the sorted website.
Decide on property type, location, features
It may be easy to jump at the first place, or even see a property and think it’s perfect. But is it perfect for your needs? It’s very useful at this point to think about things like:
Length of tenancy – Is it a short term or long term tenancy you’re really needing? It may be important to ask for a fixed term tenancy. See types of tenancy here.
Location - how far is it to work, transport, amenities, and which school zones apply.
Property details – what sort of parking or garage do you need, do you have pets, heating, bedroom numbers and any ‘wish list’ items.
Start your search with criteria list
You can now begin searching.
A great place to start is Summit’s website where you can easily search online, from any device. To get the heads up on new listings, register and save your favourite searches and you’ll be notified of suitable properties as they become available.
Alternatively you can visit one of our 6 office locations throughout the region to look at rental property listings and register your interest if you are unable to do so online.
As part of the application process you will need to contact one of our local Property Managers and talk to them about what you’re looking for. It’s a good idea to arrange this as soon as possible.
Viewing suitable properties
A necessary step to complete before you can apply for individual properties with Summit is to view the property. Check it off against your criteria list and discuss with your property manager such details as:
Move in date
What type of tenancy - fixed-term tenancy or a periodic tenancy
Chattels included
How many people / flatmates are allowed?
Lawn and grounds care – whose responsibility?
Pets / Smoking (if applicable)
Apply for the property
When you’ve found somewhere that is suitable, you can start the rental application. Complete the application form, then scan and email it to us or post / deliver to our offices along with a copy of your valid ID.
Meet the criteria
Summit’s criteria are that you must have clear credit, a good landlord/agent and/or professional character reference.
Sign a tenancy agreement
Your tenancy agreement gives information relating to your tenancy such as terms and conditions agreed to, amount of rent, bond and letting fees, chattel list and tenancy type and/or term. It will also have contact and account details. You’ll be required to sign a copy of this agreement and be given a copy for your own records.
View property condition report
If you are successful in your application, you will need to read the property condition report and list of chattels. This form is used at the end of your tenancy for your bond refund so it’s important you read this carefully and contact us within 24 hours if there is anything we’ve missed. You also need to notify your property manager if any repairs or maintenance needs arise during your tenancy so that measures can be taken and any further damage can be avoided.
Initial funds required
Bond
Before moving in, Summit requires a bond of the equivalent of 3 or 4 weeks rent, depending upon the property and your circumstances. A bond is money held as security to protect your landlord in the event they are owed unpaid rents or have incurred damage to their property. This bond is lodged with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Bond Centre, and you are provided a receipt of this. When you leave the property you will fill out a bond refund form and your bond will be refunded to you either in full or less any landlord claims for damage, cleaning, unpaid rent etc.
Rent in advance
One or two week’s rent is payable to Summit in advance depending upon whether you choose to pay weekly or fortnightly.
Letting fee
Summit has a letting fee equivalent to one week rent plus GST.
NB: All the above must be paid prior to the occupation of the property
Prepare to move in!
With any initial fees paid and your documentation in hand, you are now ready to start moving in to your new home. There are some more important things to know at this point like what day rubbish collection or recycling is, and of course sorting your household contents insurance.
There will be rental inspections as outlined by your tenancy agreement and you’ll also need to let your property manager know about any maintenance issues as soon as they arise.