When searching for a rental, time is of the utmost importance.  Begin your searching too early and you will be expected to pay rent until you arrive, as homes cannot be put on hold awaiting your arrival.  Waiting to start your search 3 days prior to needing it will make your search rushed and ultimately you may not be happy with your selection.  Here are a few things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect rental property:

        1)       Be ready to rent today.  If you find the perfect home for your family,
                  you must be willing to sign lease and put money down today.   Most
                  companies will not “hold” homes.  Meaning in order for it to be yours
                  you will need to begin paying rent as soon as it is available, whether
                  or not you will be taking possession at that time. 

        2)       Some companies will not rent to you unless you are taking possession
                  of the property today. 

        3)       If you are not willing to sign the lease and put money down today, we
                  cannot guarantee the home will be available tomorrow, much less in
                  a month from now. 

        4)       Starting your search about 30 days prior to your move in date is ideal. 
                  Most renters give 30 days’ notice.  This means if you are searching 30
                  days prior, the availability date will be close to your need date, meaning
                  less time spent paying rent for two places.