Tuesday, July 12, 2016

Things to do before Signing a Student Apartment Lease


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/

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