Apartment Rental Tips:

Whether you are a first time renter or renting veteran, you could use some tips and advice from an experienced landlord to help make sure that the experience is a smooth one.  You need to ask yourself: How close do I want to be to work?  What amenities do I want on the property?  How much can I afford?  What utilities do I have to pay for?  Do I need a roommate to help pay for the bills?  Do I want a furnished unit?

You want to make sure that your new home fits your lifestyle.  Some complexes are quiet while others can be more social, especially around schools.  By signing a lease, you are entering into a legal contract to live there for one year.  That is a big commitment.  You cannot leave just because you do not like the area, there is too much traffic on your way to work, it’s becoming too expensive living on your own and you are moving in with family, or even if you get a job in another state.  If you do break your lease, the property can sue for damages for the remainder of the lease term.  This will go onto your credit report as a collection and could hurt your chances on moving into a better place later on.  If you plan on buying a house in the coming months, find out the property’s policy on that.  Some places might let you out of your lease with proper notice.  Others have an extra fee and addendum to the lease that will allow you to break the lease early.  Some properties are strict and go by the letter of the law.  Certainly in this market, as the renter you have some power.  Vacancy rates are high and properties are desperate to fill empty units.  If you play a little hardball, you might be able to get your way.

Once you have chosen an area of town, find several complexes that are in your price range.  Call them up and find out if there are any rent concessions, such as free rent or move in specials.  Compare all of the amenities and find out exactly what utilities you have to pay for at each place.  Call and schedule an appointment to view an apartment.  Try and see the available units that you might move into, not just the model units that are perfectly decorated with fresh paint and spotlessly clean.  You should also try and come back in the evening or during the weekend.  This will let you know if the place is party central or the peaceful, quiet home you are looking for.  When on the property, ask any residents you see how they feel about the place.  They will provide you an honest answer as to quality of life in the neighborhood and the property management.

Once you have chosen a place, make sure you read over the lease and property rules carefully.  You do not want to break some rules and be threatened with eviction.  You cannot move in a new roommate if the bills are becoming too high.  Everyone who is living in the apartment must be on the lease, besides children.  A new roommate has to be approved by the management and some places may even refuse to let another person move in.  Make sure to pay your rent on time.  If some problem does arise and you will be late, let the property manager know immediately.  If you stay in contact and update them on your situation, they will be more lenient towards you.  We get worried when a tenant is behind in payments and doesn’t respond to late rent notices.  That is when we put up an eviction notice and you will have 3 days to pay the rent, get out, or be sued in court. 

Many of these tips seem like common sense, but with our schedule becoming busier everyday some simple ideas may slip by the best of us.  If you have other needs such as a pet friendly complex, wheelchair access, etc. make sure you find a suitable place.  Know that it will always be quieter on the top floor without your neighbors stomping around, plus it will be good exercise to climb some stairs.  Make sure to ask any questions or concerns you may have before you choose a place.  Be prepared and informed before you begin your search and give yourself ample time to find your new home.  Good luck.