For a standalone renter, these expenses could easily add $200 to $400 to their monthly costs. On the other hand, a rental with utilities included might charge an additional $150 to $300 on top of the base rent, depending on location and property type. In this case, bundling utilities could result in savings, while also providing peace of mind from month to month.
In summary, the cost-saving advantage of renting with utilities included is clear: financial predictability and the potential to pay less, especially in regions with volatile utility costs. This option allows renters to better manage their budgets and avoid the stress of tracking and paying multiple bills. Next, let’s look at where to find these kinds of deals.
Snagging great deals on rentals with utilities included can save you time, stress, and money, but knowing where and how to search is key. With the right tools and strategies, you can uncover properties that offer bundled rent and utility costs without overpaying.
Keep reading for some helpful tips for finding these deals, including popular websites and apps to use, how to evaluate listings for value, and red flags to watch out for.
Finding rental properties that offer utilities included can be a bit of a hunt. Luckily, thee are some strategies you can use to find and land great deals.
Start by browsing rental websites that allow you to filter for properties with utilities included. Some of the most popular include:
- Zillow
- Apartments.com
- Rent.com
You can also use apps like Zumper, HotPads, and Craigslist to zero in on your preferred locations. Additionally, reaching out to local real estate agents or property management companies can give you access to exclusive listings that may not appear online.
When evaluating listings, it’s important to know how to spot a good deal. What’s the rent like in your area? Is it worth tacking on an extra $300 a month for utilities? What if you overpay? The questions just keep coming.
Begin by comparing the price of similar properties in the same area without utilities included. If the rent with utilities is only marginally higher than the standalone rent, you may have found a bargain.
However, be on the lookout for red flags. If a rental with utilities included is priced significantly higher than comparable properties, it could mean you’re overpaying, even with utilities factored in.
Be especially cautious of vague listings that don’t specify which utilities are covered or landlords who are unwilling to provide a clear breakdown. This could be a potential scam or a trick into getting you to overpay.
Once you’ve identified a few promising properties, consider negotiating the terms, especially in competitive rental markets. If the rent feels too high, but you love the location and amenities, ask the landlord if there’s flexibility in adjusting the price or modifying the utility coverage.
By Admin –