What should I look for when seeking a house to rent?

Find out which utilities you will be paying for and which your landlord pays -- it's a little different than renting an apartment. Ask about water, electricity, and trash pickup. Also, find out whether the landlord is paying a gardener, or if you are responsible for landscaping and lawn upkeep - don't underestimate this; it's a pretty significant expense to have to buy a lawnmower. Be sure to find out about your neighbors in all directions -- it's not like an apartment where you can complain to the landlord about noise and parties -- you're on your own, with the assistance of the police.

Most importantly - find out what the landlord's intentions are with respect to the house long-term. Lots of people who can't sell are renting until the market picks up. If you want to stay there for a while, find out if the owner keeps this property as income-generating property, or if he's going to sell it as soon as he can. If the market improves in a year, you might find yourself having to move again (yuck.)

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The thing I've noticed people have issues with when renting a house is an unprofessional landlord. With a rental you can tell whether or not you will get some level of professional management. With a house you also give up some rights as far as move-outs. Interest on security deposits, prompt refunds and details of charges/deductions are more accountable when it's multi-unit. I don't know about living arrangements, such as maintenance and cleaning, but I would really be careful who I rent from.

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