can someone please post for me a crash course on renting my first apartment... I'm nervous I'm gonna get screwed lol is there anything I should know or ask before I sign on the dotted line?
autumnbride10
Posted:
Member since
Re: renting 101
First take a look at the apartment closely...if there is any damage to the walls...ceiling...rug...anywhere...make sure it is noted in your lease. You should aslo have when your rent is due, and if it's a month to month or if it is a lease a year or longer. What happens if you break the lease? Once you move in, take pics of the apartment, and then again before you move out...(that's something I do, so they can't accuse me of damaging something that may have been there when I moved in).....
MJDoc12
Posted:
Member since
Re: renting 101
ITA with everything previous poster said....and taking pics is SOOOO important! if you can use a digital camera with a date imprinted on each image, thats even better!
here is a list of q's i just found:
QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN RENTING AN APARTMENT
Rental Unit Is there damage that should be repaired before you move in or recorded so you don’t get blamed for it when you move out?
Is there a working smoke detector?
Is there evidence of cockroaches, rats, mice or other undesirables?
Is there enough storage space?
Do the doors have deadbolt locks?
Is the water pressure OK?
Does the apartment have its own heat control?
What appliances are provided?
Do all the appliances work?
Is heat sufficient? (Try asking other tenants)
Do plumbing fixtures leak?
Do the windows open, close and lock?
Are storm windows provided?
Are windows free of air leaks?
Do the windows have screens?
Are there enough electrical outlets for you?
Costs How much is monthly rent?
What day is the rent due?
When is the late fee charged?
How much is the late fee?
Which utilities would you pay for?
What move-in costs are there?
Is the first and last month’s rent due up front?
Is there a security deposit?
Are there other deposits for things like keys, cleaning, or pets?
Are there other charges?
Sublet fees?
Furniture rental?
Building and Grounds Are they clean and well kept?
Are they well lighted?
Is the parking lot in good shape?
Is a specific parking place assigned to each apartment?
Is snow removal provided?
Are there laundry facilities and are they maintained?
Neighborhood and Location Is the neighborhood safe?
How long would it take you to get to school or work?
Is it near a grocery store?
Are the neighbors quiet or noisy?
Is it near the bus line?
when reading the lease--just make sure you go over EVERY SINGLE LINE. don't just blindly sign....you want to make sure that things are fair and if you have a question do NOT be afraid to ask the landlord about it---or even ask that something be taken out and initialed by both parties.
