Moving can be a stressful and costly ordeal, with the time, tension, and financial pressure of relocating all your belongings from one place to another. For renters, there’s the added anxiety of dealing with bonds. To ease some of that burden, here’s what you need to do to ensure you get your bond back in full, every time.

As soon as you decide to move, start assessing the property’s condition. Avoid leaving things to the last minute, as that will only heighten your stress. The good news is that properties are expected to have some wear and tear after each tenant moves out—it doesn’t need to look brand new. The leeway given for “wear and tear” depends on how long you’ve lived there and the condition when you moved in.

Accidents happen—whether it’s a hole in the wall or a broken towel rail. It’s best to inform your property manager as soon as these issues occur rather than waiting until the end of your lease. While you’ll still need to pay for damages beyond normal wear and tear, addressing them promptly prevents delays in receiving your bond back. Contact us, and we’ll connect you with trusted tradespeople to get things fixed quickly.

Before moving out, ask your property manager for a checklist of expectations. This way, you’ll know exactly what needs to be done to get your bond back in full. Key things that might affect your bond include leaving the property dirtier than when you moved in, discrepancies between the current condition and the original report, and any damages not considered as wear and tear.

Your idea of “good condition” might not match your agent’s standards. To avoid surprises, arrange for a pre-vacate inspection with your property manager. They can point out areas needing attention, helping you address them before handing back the keys and increasing your chances of getting your bond back.

There’s a common misconception that your final month’s rent can be covered by your bond—it can’t. Your bond is separate from your rent, and withholding rent because you’re worried about your bond return is risky. Doing so could result in being blacklisted on a tenancy database, which would seriously complicate your future rental applications.

At Create Real Estate, we understand that moving can be a hassle. Our dedicated team is here to help make your transition smoother. Whether you need guidance on getting your bond back or finding your next rental, we’re here for you every step of the way. Visit our website or give us a call today to see how we can assist you with your property needs!