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Finding a good rental flat can be hard work, but it's worth making the effort so that you can be sure you've chosen the right property for you.

What makes a great rental flat? It's usually a combination of location, size, facilities and price. Get all of these things right and you could find yourself enjoying life as a tenant.

Location

By their nature, rental flats are often available in central locations. This makes them ideal for city dwellers and nightlife lovers, but not necessarily right for families. However, developers are constantly buying large properties and developing them into flats in quieter areas. These are perfect for people with children, older people who want to live in a smaller property and retired people. Making sure that you look for flats in a location that's right for you is a step in the right direction.

Size

The size of rental flats can vary enormously. From high-ceilings and beautifully-proportioned rooms to small, poky rooms that have been converted from much larger premises, it's vital that you view every flat you're interested in. Think about how easy they will be to heat, whether there's enough natural light, whether the walls keep out the neighbours' noise and how difficult it might be to move your furniture in. If you have a family, you need to make sure there's enough space in kitchens, living spaces and bathrooms to avoid clashes around every corner.

Price

The monthly rental for your property is key. You should set a budget so that you know exactly how much you can afford to pay, including all the bills and other costs. Only when you're sure you can afford the flat should you commit to a contract. Make sure you ask your agent about Council Tax band, whether the property is on a water meter or is rated, and what the average cost of the utility bills is. Also make sure that you know about any additional costs so that you're not taken by surprise once you move in.