Check it out—all of it
As in, don’t sign a lease on an apartment you’ve never seen, no matter how tempting the description may sound. (Actually, the more amazing it sounds, the more you should question if it’s too good to be true.) Likewise, don’t sign for a place that you’ve only seen the model version of, no matter how identical the landlord claims them to be. Once you’re in the ACTUAL apartment, check everything: the stove, the toilet, the fridge, the dishwasher, the heat, the faucets, the smoke detectors, the windows, all the lights. Any sign of mold, or pests? Water damage? Check the outside of the house, as well.
Make a list of anything that needs repairs
Either get a written promise from your landlord that all repairs will be made, and specify within what time, or just wait to sign the lease until everything’s been fixed. Sure, the guy might rent the place to another sucker, and you might have to start from square one. On the other hand, if he’s hesitant to fix things, you probably want to find a different manager.
Do a “background check” on your landlord
This is easy enough. Call the local tenant agency or consumer protection agency, and ask if any past tenants have submitted complaints about your prospective landlord. He’s probably going to run a check on you, why shouldn’t you on him? You can also go talk to the neighbors, and see if they know how past tenants have liked living in the apartment.
Look up crime statistics for the area
See what you’re getting yourself into. As part of this, make sure that the apartment has all necessary safety devices. You may have things you need to feel safe—a deadbolt, for instance—and your state may require certain standards from property managers. Check this out.
Know your own credit rating
We’ve written about renting and credit, and we take the position that it’s best to know where you stand, credit-wise, before a landlord does. If you have credit issues, you can be proactive about providing him with information to prove that you’re capable of paying rent on time.
Ask the necessary questions
There are lots of things you should ask about, from whether you’re allowed to paint the interior to whether you’re allowed to have a pet. Know everything about what’s expected of you, and what you can expect in return.
Actually read the lease before signing!
We’re not joking. It’s dismally boring, no question, but that legal document can be your downfall or your saving grace. Don’t risk your financial future just because it’s awkward to have your landlord sit in silence as you read.
Did we miss anything? Tell us what else you always do before signing a lease here or on Facebook!
I will be moving from LA and cannot look at the unit before I cross the country…what do you suggest I do to cover the necessary bases?
Hi Deborah! While it’s always preferable to see an apartment in person before you rent, if that’s not possible there are a number of steps you can take to prepare for your move. If you have any friends or relatives in the area you’re moving to, ask if they will tour the apartment on your behalf, and take videos or photos to send to you. The landlord may also be able to provide a video or photo tour of the unit. Be sure you ask for dimensions of each room so you know what furniture you can accommodate. As soon as you move in, schedule a walk-through with your landlord and record any existing damage, deficiencies, or things that need to be repaired — the sooner you do this, the sooner they’ll get fixed, and it will also be important to have this record when you are trying to recover your security deposit.
If you’re still searching for an apartment, being savvy about your sources can help you avoid disappointment. Here’s our blog post on how to assess online listings and get a better idea of what the unit is actually like: http://localtalk.mynewplace.com/2012/02/15/reading-between-the-craigslist-lines-how-to-decode-an-apartment-listing/
You can also familiarize yourself with your new town. Here are some online resources to help you get to know your neighborhood even if you’ve never been there: http://localtalk.mynewplace.com/2011/12/26/new-year-new-apartment-free-internet-sources-help-choose-the-perfect-location/.
Finally, since you’ll be busy exploring your new place once you move, make sure you’ve got the rest of your move fully planned so you can reduce stress as much as possible! Check out our cross-country moving tips: http://localtalk.mynewplace.com/2011/11/08/changing-coasts-how-to-make-your-cross-country-move-stress-free/.
Hope this helps, and best of luck in your new place!
Julia
MyNewPlace.com
If two people sign a lease, is the other person responsible if one doesn’t own up to their obligation?