Finding the perfect apartment when in college can be a
bit nerve-wracking. Most students fear the house hunting process and rush into
signing a lease whenever the place looks fine at first glance. Take your time
before signing a lease and ensure the place works for you. Here are 7 things
you need to do before signing that apartment lease.
1. Discuss
modifications and improvements
If you have already inspected the apartment and there
are potential issues, make sure you discuss them with the landlord before
signing the lease. It’s important for you to know whether the issues will be
resolved before or after you move in. If the property owner is not in a
position to resolve those issues then that may not be an ideal fit for you to
move in.
2. Document
pre-existing damage
It’s very important for you to take note of any issues
that the landlord did not agree to fix before you move in. They can be minor
issues such as stained carpeting or missing tiles. Make sure you document this
and protect yourself from any additional charges when you want to move out.
Your security deposited may be used to make such repairs when you move out if
you were not careful enough to document them.
3. Understand
what’s included in monthly rental cost
It’s important to clarify what utilities are included,
if any, in your rental cost. Things like cable and parking may be paid for
separately depending on the management of that apartment. There are even areas
that offer public transportation and many other opportunities to save you
money. Make sure you discuss with your landlord what is included in the monthly
rent rate before you sign that lease.
4. Can
you customize the apartment?
Some apartments have very strict rules as to the kind
of customizations that are permitted. Sometimes even installing your own
lighting can result to your lease being terminated. Make sure you ask about any
customizations you are planning to do before signing the lease.
5. Do
they allow pets?
It’s important to understand the apartment’s pet
policies before signing the lease. Most apartments that are designed for
students normally do not allow pets but you have to confirm this with the
management. Find out what pets are allowed and if you will have to pay an
additional rate for this.
6. How
about lease renewal?
What are the steps you need to take if you want to
renew your lease? Some apartments do not allow students to renew their lease
when certain conditions are not met. You must have this information before
signing the lease.
7. Ensure
everything you agreed on
is
in writing
Most importantly, go through the entire lease document
and ensure everything you agreed
on
is in writing. Read every word and make sure you understand. Whenever there is
anything you don’t understand, ask the property owner or management to clarify.
This lease document is very important and protects you in case of any
eventualities.
Posted by: Melbourne Commons http://melbournecommons.com/
