Beware of renting or buying any dwelling without viewing the
property first. Do not send deposits or downpayments in advance
unless you or someone you trust has actually inspected the property for
habitability. Even then, remember that personal tastes may vary from
individual to individual and that what might be suitable to your friend may not
be suitable to you.
Average rental costs for houses and apartments as of
March 2005 are listed below:
AVERAGE RENTAL COST
AVERAGE RENTAL
COST
(HOUSE) (APARTMENT)
1
Bedroom...$700 1
BEDROOM $487
2
Bedroom...$873 2
BEDROOM $613
3
Bedroom...$956 3
BEDROOM $777
4
Bedroom...$1084 4
BEDROOM $834
A majority of the rental homes in the area are
older homes. Appliances, such as stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers,
garbage disposals, and washers/dryers, may not be provided by the owner or
landlord. Due to the climate, air conditioning is considered to be a
desirable addition, with central air and heat the best
choice. However, many properties have window-type air conditioning
units installed, and some lack any type of cooling device whatsoever.
Pet
policies are strictly enforced by many landlords. In some cases,
small pets are preferable to large pets. Regardless of the size, if a
pet is to be allowed inside your rental home, expect to pay a hefty deposit for
the privilege.
Costs associated with home rental include security
deposits, pet deposits, utility deposits and monthly utility
costs. Security deposits vary from a low of $200 to an amount equal
to one month's rent. Pet deposits can be equally high, and that's if
a landlord is even willing to allow a pet at all. Utility deposits
are usually low to moderate - more information on actual cost can be found in
the section on UTILITIES.
Many factors can influence the cost of your
monthly utilities - the age and condition of the home, age and condition of
appliances, and individual preference. Some people may like to keep
their homes cooler or warmer than recommended for efficient energy
usage.
The local Board of Realtors, San Patricio County Board of
Realtors, can refer you to realtors who will assist you in the home buying
process. They are listed below in the Record
Listings. Also listed is the Local Apartment Association in Corpus
Christi.