Tips for First Time Renters

Tips for First Time Renters

The first thing a apartment-seeker should do is decide what they are looking for. Luxury or economy? City or suburban? Once you have made your mind up, you can judge apartments on some of the following criteria.

Quality of the Unit

• Is the apartment in good general shape? has the owner kept up with maintenance?
• Is the apartment prone to damage from environmental factors such as floods and storms?
• Do all of the appliances work? Check the refrigerator, stove, etc.
• Does the plumbing and heating work? Check the radiators and water pressure.
• Is the apartment building itself safe? Check the foundation, doors, locks, gas, etc.

Location, Location

• What type of neighborhood is the unit in? Residential, commercial, suburban?
• What about the schools? if you have children it will be a major factor in your decision.
• What is the apartment's proximity to the highway and other major roads?
• Are there parking spaces available? will you need a permit to park on the street?
• How far will your daily commute to work be?
• Is it close to restaurants/bars/movie theaters/etc. that you frequently visit?

Costs and Expenses

• What is the monthly fee for basic rent? Is it within your budget?
• What sort of other expenses will there be: cable/heat/water/electric/etc. ?
• Do you know and trust the landlord?
• Is there any sort of finder's fee or move-in expense for the apartment?

The Landlord

• Does the landlord seem like a respectable person?
• Do they seem like the kind of person you could maintain a healthy relationship with?
• Will they be around to fix things if they become broken?