Determining Your Budget
Before you start your rental search, it's crucial to understand how much you can comfortably afford. A common guideline is that rent should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income.
Monthly Costs to Consider
- Base rent: The monthly amount listed in your lease
- Utilities: Electric, gas, water, trash, internet (some may be included)
- Renters insurance: Typically $15-30/month, often required by landlords
- Parking: May be additional in some complexes
- Pet fees: Pet rent and/or one-time pet deposit
Upfront Costs
- Security deposit: Usually equal to one month's rent in Texas
- First month's rent: Due at lease signing
- Application fees: Typically $25-75 per applicant
- Admin/move-in fees: Some properties charge these
- Moving costs: Truck rental, movers, supplies
Save 3-4 months of rent before moving. This covers your deposit, first month, and gives you a cushion for unexpected expenses during the transition.
Finding the Right Location
Location affects your daily life more than any other factor. Consider your commute, lifestyle needs, and long-term plans when choosing where to rent.
Key Factors to Research
- Commute time: Test drive the route during rush hour, check public transit options
- Neighborhood safety: Check crime statistics, visit at different times of day
- Nearby amenities: Grocery stores, restaurants, gyms, entertainment
- School districts: Important even if you don't have kids (affects resale values)
- Noise levels: Proximity to highways, airports, train tracks, nightlife
Texas City Considerations
Texas cities are sprawling, and traffic can be significant. Living closer to work may cost more in rent but saves on gas, commute time, and stress. Consider the total cost of living in each area, not just rent.
Walk around the neighborhood in the evening and on weekends. You'll get a better sense of the vibe, noise levels, and how neighbors interact.
Searching for Rentals
Cast a wide net when searching for rentals. Use multiple platforms, work with agents, and be ready to act quickly when you find a good match.
Where to Search
- Online platforms: Zillow, Apartments.com, Rent.com, Facebook Marketplace
- Real estate agents: Especially helpful for house and condo rentals
- Property management websites: Search directly on company sites
- Local listings: Craigslist, Nextdoor, community boards (be cautious of scams)
- Drive-by: Some properties only advertise with yard signs
Red Flags to Watch For
- Price significantly below market rate for the area
- Landlord asks for money before you've seen the property
- Unable to show the property in person
- Pressure to sign immediately without proper viewing
- Vague or evasive answers to your questions
Set up alerts on rental sites for your criteria. Good rentals go fast in Texas, and being first to inquire gives you an advantage.
Touring Properties & Applying
When you find promising rentals, schedule tours promptly. Come prepared with questions and have your application materials ready to submit quickly.
What to Check During Tours
- Water pressure and hot water in showers/faucets
- All appliances work (stove, fridge, dishwasher, A/C, heat)
- Windows and doors open, close, and lock properly
- Signs of pests, mold, or water damage
- Cell phone reception throughout the unit
- Condition of common areas and parking
- Laundry facilities (if not in-unit)
Application Documents Needed
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of income (pay stubs, offer letter, tax returns)
- Rental history with previous landlord contact info
- Bank statements (sometimes required)
- References (personal or professional)
- Social Security number for credit/background checks
Most landlords require income of 2.5-3x the monthly rent. If you're close to that threshold, offer to pay a few months upfront or provide a co-signer to strengthen your application.
Review Lease & Move In
Your lease is a legally binding contract. Read it thoroughly before signing, and document the property's condition carefully at move-in.
Key Lease Terms to Understand
- Lease term: Month-to-month vs. fixed term (usually 12 months)
- Rent due date: When rent is due and grace period
- Late fees: Amount and when they apply
- Early termination: Penalties for breaking the lease early
- Renewal terms: How rent increases work, notice required
- Maintenance responsibilities: What you vs. landlord handle
- Guest and subletting policies: Rules about long-term visitors
Move-In Inspection
Document everything before moving your belongings in. Take dated photos and videos of all rooms, especially any existing damage. Many landlords provide a move-in checklist - complete it thoroughly and keep a copy.
Email your move-in photos to the landlord immediately. This creates a timestamped record that protects you when you move out.
Know Your Tenant Rights
Texas law provides important protections for tenants. Understanding your rights helps you navigate landlord relationships and resolve issues when they arise.
Security Deposit Rules
- No statutory limit on deposit amount in Texas
- Landlord has 30 days after move-out to return deposit or provide itemized deductions
- Deductions must be for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear
- You can sue in small claims court for wrongful deposit withholding
Repair Rights
- Landlord must make repairs that affect health or safety
- Send repair requests in writing and keep copies
- Texas law allows rent withholding in specific circumstances (consult an attorney first)
- You cannot be evicted for requesting repairs in good faith
Privacy & Entry
Texas has no statute requiring advance notice for landlord entry, but most leases specify notice requirements. Check your lease and communicate with your landlord about expectations.
Keep all communication with your landlord in writing (email or text). This creates a paper trail if disputes arise later.