The Spring Hill Area of Florida has been one of the hardest hit housing markets in the country for foreclosures. For those that have lost their homes, they will need a place to live. Many have left Florida and have joined their families in the north, or have sought to start life over again somewhere else in Hernando County. Almost always they are assured that they will be renting a home or apartment once reestablished.

The newly displaced will almost always have to submit to a credit and background check before signing a lease. Landlords are very forgiving these days with renter bad credit so there is little problem getting into a rental with first, last months rent and most usually a security deposit.

As much as landlords want to do an inquiry on a potential renter’s background, renters should require the same of the landlord.

Here’s why: The reason a renter should check out a landlord is that you may be one of the many renters that will be forced out of their homes due to the owner being foreclosed upon. If you are one these unfortunate, you could be renting a home with the owner knowing full well that the home will go into foreclosure.

Further, the owner will make no attempt at making any further mortgage payments, partial or otherwise. They will simply take your money for as long as they can, leaving you with a bitter ending.

You could even lose your last months rent and security deposit. And if you are dealing with a rental agent, you do not want to take their word at face value. Do your homework before signing a lease and giving up your money.

Here’s how: Whether or not this will be your situation, you, as a renter need to check the owner's background with the Hernando County Clerk of the Court or your local court and you can do that on the Internet. You want to see if there are any impending actions against the property such as foreclosure proceedings. Recent unresolved judgment against the owner should also be a flag for you as to whether or not you should rent a particular home.

So renters, beware!