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What Is a Market Rent?

C. Daw
C. Daw

Also know as a "fair market rent," market rent is the amount a property can be rented for. This amount is typically is determined by what the average rental market can bear, depending on many different factors, including a strong or weak economy, up and down turns within the real estate markets, and the condition of the property, the neighborhood and its particular amenities. This rental amount can be kept under control because of the various similar properties that can be found within the same area that have been set at a reasonable price. Landlords need to be competitive, and by ensuring that their rent is in keeping with the market, they will have a better chance at getting their property leased quickly. If a three bedroom, two bath house rents for significantly more than other rentals in the neighborhood, it will not likely get many inquiries.

The basic market rent is decided by numerous different factors, such as the location of the property, the current real estate prices, the size of building and the surrounding property, and the health of the local economy. The size of the rental property is also a big factor in the price that is set, as well as any extra amenities that are being included within the rental. Having a barn, shed, garage, and other various outbuildings will raise the market rent, as will furniture and appliances that are included. There are so many different factors involved when an owner sets a fair market rent price that it is imperative to have a high and low rental value for the property, and understand that all of these different factors will increase the worth of the rental within any specific area.

Man climbing a rope
Man climbing a rope

The best way to determine the fair market rent of an area is to do some basic research in the area that the property is located. There are many online services that will allow a person to compare the prices within the area, so it's recommended to search in the same area as the rental. Another great way to find the market rent of an area is to find some rentals in the area and contact the owners of the property to find out what is offered and at what price. This works for private rental properties, or business rentals, as well as for owners of the property that is going to be rented. The property owner, to ensure that the property is rented the majority of the time, should place the rent in the middle of the high and low prices that have been set around them.

The market rent is often set in accordance with the current market value, and it is good to keep up to date with the latest market trends and flows. The tenant and the landlord should both be well aware of the legal issues and laws of property lease that pertain to the area in which the property or building is located. Before proceeding ahead with any further agreements, the rules and regulations of the area need to be evaluated to ensure that the property is listed at a fair market rent level.

One of the best ways to find the fair market value is to use the services of a professional, such as a real estate agent or rental agency. These people will always have up to date information on the area they operate in. Even though some of these sources may charge a small fee, it is still worth the investment to get accurate, up to date information without having to do any of the research. They will also know the price differences between commercial and private property, and which areas allow specific needs of a renter, such as allowing a home based business to be run out of it.

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      Man climbing a rope