The Top 10 Must Haves For Houston Renters

I’ve been doing this real estate thing for a while now, and there are some requests that seem universal to everyone moving to the area. At first, a few of them threw me for a loop until I realized that Houston is a very unique city and not quite like others. If you’re new to the area and looking for a home, I bet you have a few of these thoughts running through your head. I compiled this list of 10 common requests and questions to jump start your Houston home search.

#1 I really want a place with central air conditioning

Oh, that we have plenty of! Seriously. If you’re moving from a place without central air, you are going to love Houston. Anything built after the 60s is going to offer it. We do have some charming older homes and duplexes that still have window units, but they are in the minority.

#2 A walk in closet is a must

You bet it is! Everything is bigger in Texas and that includes closets. Even some of the oldest apartment complexes in Houston have walk in closets that are bigger than your kitchen. We have big open kitchens too!

#3 I’d love to have a balcony

You’re in luck. Despite the terrible heat and torturous humidity, Houstonians love to be outside. Most apartments have patios or balconies.

#4 I have the sweetest dog ever

I know you do! Really, and I can’t wait to meet the furbaby. Houston is ridiculously pet friendly. We have dog parks all over the city, and nearly every apartment complex and half of privately owned rentals are going to allow pets. Most communities cap weights at 50-100 pounds, but a few gems are located throughout the city with no weight limits. There is always a restriction for aggressive breeds though due to insurance policy guidelines. I know your pit bull mix is a sweetheart, but it will make renting difficult. Regardless of the breed, there will always be a fee and/or a deposit required to cover any potential damages and some communities also charge pet rent.

#5 I want to be near the METROrail

Mass transit in Houston is a work in progress, and it’s getting better every day. However, it is nothing like what they offer in Chicago or New York. There is very little residential within walking distance of the main line of the rail, and it doesn’t travel to every corner of our sprawling city. However, our METRO bus system goes everywhere and connects to the rail. If you work in the medical center, there’s a bus stop within a block or 2 of every apartment community in the area.

#6 I want to walk or cycle to work

Uhm…does your office have a shower? Just kidding! We have some amazing bike paths and jogging trails throughout the city, and we’re working very hard to be more pedestrian friendly. Downtown has it’s first dedicated bike lane but, it’s only on one street (baby steps.) However, it is wicked hot outside and you will sweat just going a block. Downtown has an underground tunnel system and is great for people that work and live in the district. Oh, and those bike paths and jogging trails – they’re pretty great for after work and weekends!

#7 Are rates negotiable?

This depends on a couple of things. If you’re renting a privately owned listing such as a small apartment or townhouse, maybe. If market conditions make it a “renter’s” market, then absolutely, we can try to negotiate the rate. If you’re shopping apartment complexes, fair housing laws prohibit offering different rates to different people. However, you may qualify for an upfront discount on application fees if you’re qualify for their preferred employer program.

#8 What is included in the rent? 

Great question! All utilities are your own responsibility. Gas is not terribly common for Houston; so, you’ll be setting up electricity most likely. The property will probably set up your water and trash, but you’re expected to pay the bill. Cable, internet and phone are of course elective. If you’re renting an apartment, you don’t have to pay additional fees for the amenities , landscaping or repairs, though. Oh, and our amenities nearly always include a pool to quench the nasty Texas heat.

#9 Is parking included?

Nearly anywhere you choose to live will have ample parking. If you rent a house, it will usually have a garage or a driveway. Apartments come with first come first serve parking for residents, and usually sufficient visitor parking too. You can elect to “reserve” a parking space for yourself for a monthly fee, too.  In areas like Montrose and the Heights, privately owned rentals may only offer street parking.

#10 What neighborhood should I live in?

This is why you want to contact a REALTOR®! Houston has so many fantastic neighborhoods and they each offer something different.  A local REALTOR® knows these neighborhoods, what makes them so unique, and after talking with you, can recommend options and arrange for you to tour the ones that interest you most. Usually, a combination of things such as where your office is located, what you enjoy doing for fun, where your colleagues and friends live, and your budget will factor into determining the best area of Houston for you. In addition to saving you a substantial amount of time, the service is free.

Whether you are relocating or your move is local, contact me to get started!

Do you have additional questions? Leave a comment below.