The economic recession may actually mean good news for you if you’re interested in renting a house, condo, or an apartment. Rental housing is increasing in availability across the nation, just as prices for rentals are going down.

There are multiple reasons for the increase in rental housing, starting with the soft housing market. Many homeowners who have had to relocate for employment or personal reasons are choosing to rent out their previous homes rather than attempting to sell. Similarly, home owners having trouble making payments on their mortgages are opting to move into smaller, less expensive housing units while renting out their existing homes.

Foreclosures also have a lot to do with the rise in rental housing availability. As the number of foreclosures rise in towns across the country, the number of housing units available for rent also rises. This stems from banks and investors looking to put individuals in previously foreclosed homes in order to begin gaining income. In most cases, it doesn’t matter to them whether the new occupants rent or buy as long as income is coming in to cover the price of the foreclosed home.

A final reason for an increase in available housing for rent is due to the rise in individuals choosing to have roommates or to live with other families. As more and more people become jobless or face challenges paying for daily expenses, more are deciding that shared housing is a suitable, frugal option.

If you plan to search for available housing for rent, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Follow the tips below to make sure you find the best property for your needs.

Get your credit in order

Just as your credit must be checked before you make any large purchases, so is the case before you’re allowed to rent most types of housing. Some rental agencies require a credit check even before you are allowed to view a property.

Before you begin making inquiries about rental properties, make sure your credit is in good order. Look up your credit score and view your credit report to check for errors or misinformation. If your credit rating is not as high as you’d like it to be, try to pay off any longstanding debts.

Not all rental agencies or landlords will require a credit background. If your credit is likely to hurt your rental application, try to locate a property that does not require a credit check.

Clarify your expectations

The search for any type of property should start with a clear understanding of your needs. Begin by writing down the maximum amount of money you’d be willing to pay for a rental property. Be sure to leave enough room in your budget for other essentials such as food, utilities, insurance, and contributions to an emergency savings account.

Next, you’ll want to list the features you’re hoping for in a rental property. Figure out the minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms you’ll need. Decide whether it’s essential that the property come with a refrigerator, or whether you can afford one yourself. Consider whether you require a washer and dryer or washer/dryer hookup, or whether you’ll be fine taking your laundry to the local Laundromat. Think about whether you have any other special considerations, such as the need to be on the ground floor to accommodate a family member who has trouble with stairs.

Check out property locations

The best way to get a feel for a property is simply to view it. Start by driving around neighborhoods where you’re considering living. If you have children, inquire about the schools in the areas. Look into other possible needs you may have, like the proximity of public transportation.

Make sure you take the time to view any potential property before you sign a rental agreement. A colorful description may make a property sound lovely, but once you’re inside you may discover that it’s actually a lemon. Remember, it’s worth your time to do your homework.

Ask for references regarding your potential landlord

Just as any rental agency or landlord will ask for references to boost your case as a renter, so too should you ask for references regarding possible landlords. If you’ll be renting from a company, check for references or complaints through your local Chamber of Commerce and through the Better Business Bureau. If you’re planning to rent from an individual, ask for references from previous renters or from an employer. You’re goal is to find a landlord who will pay attention to the needs of the properties and to the requests of his or her renters.