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When you’re planning to move to a new place, you’re likely to create a list of things you want, need and expect to have at your convenience.
At some point in the creation of this list, all your needs and wants will converge, making it difficult to differentiate the important things from the non-important ones.
Therefore, creating a list of things you do not want is a simpler and more straight-forward affair.
Since everyone has their own set of dislikes, we’ll be covering a broad perspective of things that you should include in your ‘Do-Not Want’ list when on the lookout for that perfect place:
1. Bad Neighbourhood
To be fair, no one’s going to want to live in a neighbourhood full of crime; at least not willingly. Yet this is number one because some people forget that not every neighbourhood is created equal.
Check the status of each neighbourhood you visit by going to the authorities in the area and find out how many crimes and what kind has been committed there.
The local authorities in Malaysia are used to this, they will be happy to help.
2. Surrounding Area
Visit the neighbourhood at different times of the day to see how it operates typically over a 24 hour cycle.
When you do this, you’ll find out if street lights work at night and just how dark it can get in the neighbourhood when the sun sets.
Some other factors to consider:
- Does it look unsafe?
- Do people lock their doors by 6pm and the streets are empty?
- Are there a lot of stray dogs barking at night?
- Is it noisy at night because of traffic?
- Are there families with young children close to the apartment?
- Do the babies cry?
These are telltale signs that the apartment will be unsuitable, or could be an issue for you.
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3. Apartment Problems
- Is the internet provider relatively stable?
- Does your phone have reception/ signal in the area?
- Do the security guards frequently patrol the building?
- How’s the water pressure like and does it cut off at a communal time?
- Do you get enough electricity?
- Does the power trip frequently and you can’t have more than a handful of appliances running at the same time?
- How long has it been since the apartment was painted?
Are the wall paints cracked and peeling? If they are, it shows that the apartment isn’t cared for. Also check the doors and windows for security:
- Are the hinges in working order?
- What about the locks?
- Would it be easy for someone to break in?
PropertyGuru Tip If the paint is old, it might have residue that is harmful should you inhale it. Definitely not a good idea if you’re moving in with children!
4. High Rental Prices
When rental is unusually high, especially when other apartments in the area do not match the price quoted, you need to do a check on the property.
Does the owner have a problem with tenants sticking to their lease so he charges high to cover potential losses? Why are tenants leaving?
The price must be justified and if it can’t be, then the apartment is unsuitable. These issues cover a broad spectrum of problems you should look to avoid having in any apartment you view.
Naturally you’ll have your own list of things you do not want, so create a list with the most important thing at the top and work your way down.
Once you’ve established the things you do not want, it’ll be much easier deciding on the things you’ll need. All the best in your property search!
