The true cost of moving rentals
Moving from one rental to another? Well, it’s important to start budgeting in advance, because sadly the cost of shifting from one rental property to another can quickly add up, even if you’re only relocating a couple of streets away.
So, let’s look at the costs involved in moving from one rental property to the next, and how you can make the process more affordable.
Bond
One of the biggest costs associated with moving into a rental involves the payment of the bond. Usually equivalent to two or four weeks rent, this payment is required when the rental agreement is signed, and it can feel like quite an impost.
Often if you’re moving from one rental to another, you can expect some of that cost to be recouped when the bond for your previous property is returned, but in the interim it’s an outlay you need to budget or plan for.
Rent in advance
In addition to the bond, you will also be required to pay two weeks rent in advance. This usually needs to be paid within 24 hours of your rental application being approved.
And like the bond, it can feel like a hefty outlay, particularly if you’re still paying rent on your existing property.
Moving costs
Exactly how much you spend on moving depends how far you’re going and who you bring in to assist.
For example, a professional moving and packing company will cost a lot more than having your friends help, or hiring a truck yourself.
That said, there is always a cost to the physical moving process, with rent.com.au noting it can be anywhere from $300-$3000.
Cleaning
Part of moving out of the previous rental involves returning it to its original, clean condition. And here, you have two options, you can clean the property yourself or have it professionally cleaned with an end-of-lease or bond clean.
Either way there are likely to be costs involved. If you choose to clean the property yourself, cleaning products and equipment will be required. There will also be a cost in the form of time, with bond cleans requiring attention to detail.
Meanwhile, the cost of a professional cleaning company varies, with Hi Pages noting the national average is $200-$700, with studio apartments costing as little as $250, while large five-bedroom homes can potentially cost $850 or more.
And remember, it’s not just the inside of the home that needs to be cleaned, either. The garden will need to be tidied, exterior areas will need to be neat, and windows will need to be clean.
You may also need to have the carpets cleaned, and if there have been pets at the property, a pest spray might be required.
Utilities
When you move properties, you will also need to disconnect the utilities at your old house and finalise the account while also connecting services at the new property.
In some cases there may be fees involved, and there may also be stipulations in your rental agreement about specific utilities.
For example, you may have to organise gas bottles or water tanks to be refilled prior to exiting the property.
