Renting costs

Money you pay before you move in

What do I pay up front?

You will usually pay more than the first week of rent before you get the keys.

• A bond, which is held for you and is meant to be returned at the end if there is no damage or unpaid rent. The rules are set by your state.
• Rent in advance. How much is allowed depends on your state.
• Costs of connecting services, such as electricity and internet.
• Moving costs, and furniture or other things you need for the home.

Regular costs

What will I pay as long as I live there?

Plan for your regular bills as well as the rent.

• Rent, paid as often as your agreement says.
• Electricity, gas, water if your agreement makes you pay for it, internet and phone.
• Contents insurance, to cover your own things. The landlord's insurance does not cover them.
• Travel to work or study.

Costs that come and go

What other costs might come up?

Some costs come up from time to time. Keep a little aside.

• Rent can go up. Your state's rules say when and by how much.
• Cleaning or repairs for damage you are responsible for, when you leave.
• The cost of moving again, if you move at the end of your agreement or earlier.

Check what you can be charged

What can an agent or landlord charge me for?

There are rules about what you can be charged for. If you are asked to pay something you are not sure about, check first.

• Ask for anything you are asked to pay in writing, and keep the receipt.
• Your state's tenancy regulator says what can and cannot be charged.
• Say no to being asked to pay in a way that cannot be traced, such as gift cards.

Check your budget

Can I afford it?

Add up all your costs, not only the rent. The buying costs calculator can show what a loan could cost if you plan to buy later.

• Add up the rent and your regular bills for a week or a month.
• Compare the total with your regular income.
• Keep some money aside for the costs that come and go.

• Browse properties for rent by state
• Buying costs and loan repayment calculator