A first-time tenant's checklist for the Tricity

Renting your first home in the Tricity is exciting, but a little preparation goes a long way. Before you start scheduling visits, it helps to know exactly what you are looking for and what you can comfortably afford.

Set a realistic monthly budget that includes rent, maintenance and utilities — a good rule of thumb is to keep rent under a third of your take-home pay. Shortlist two or three localities so you can compare honestly instead of falling for the first flat you see.

When you visit, check water pressure, mobile signal, natural light and the state of the fittings. Ask about the security deposit, the notice period and who handles repairs. Getting these answers upfront saves you from unpleasant surprises after you move in.