Getting ready to move into your first rental is exciting. However, it can also be intimidating because renting is a huge deal. After all, you must consider numerous factors and if you’re a first-time renter, the information can overwhelm you.
Bear in mind that some facets of locating a rental aren’t enjoyable, and while renting is frequently quicker and cheaper than purchasing a home, you must ask your realtor these crucial questions before renting.
Is there documentation of the property’s condition?
The same way you wouldn’t rent a vehicle with a dent, you shouldn’t sign a rental agreement without documenting any pre-existing damage. Avoid signing the lease until you’re content with the property’s condition both inside and outside.
Most homebuyers engage professional services to conduct a home inspection before closing, but numerous renters never consider this. You might not want to part with hundreds of dollars to inspect a rental you’ll reside in for a couple of years, but don’t presume that unit inspection is unimportant or unnecessary.
In the event that you decide to accomplish this task yourself, ensure you approach it with the same seriousness that you would if you were purchasing the place. An inspection is important for these reasons:
- To ensure everything is functioning in the rental
- To establish whether there’s pre-existing damage
- To document any damage to avoid being charged later
Your landlord can give you a list of components in every room of the apartment. It should comprise an itemization, for instance, carpeting, locks/doors, electrical outlets, and wall covering. The kitchen must list appliances and other components.
You must ensure that each component is in good condition and working order. You must report those that aren’t to the landlord and ensure that repairs take place before you move in. In the event that the landlord doesn’t give you a formal list, you should develop one and complete it. Remember, if you don’t list any damage before occupancy can later be construed as damage you caused.
Can I have Roommates?
While it might be common to reside with roommates in rentals, this doesn’t imply that every landlord permits it. Even if you sign a lease with a roommate, a time may come when the person wants to move out and you’ll need another roommate.
Don’t presume that this is okay because numerous landlords will want to approve new roommates or might not permit them at all. Establish the rules upfront and ensure they’re delineated in the agreement. The same applies to subletting.
A sublet could save you from breaking your agreement in case you have to move out before the lease is up. However, you’ll have to know the terms and how it will influence your monthly rent. If subletting isn’t an option, you’ll want to know this from the beginning.
Can I Decorate the Rental?
People like decorating their rental to suit their tastes and personalities. With some rentals, you must maintain them in their original condition. To prevent disputes, choose a rental that suits your style and taste. This way, you won’t feel the need to change the rental. In the event that you obtain permission, which is rare, keep it simple when decorating.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let your eagerness to find a rental lead to a bad decision. You’ll discover how inconvenient it can be when you get locked into a lease while living under unfavorable conditions. For this reason, it’s imperative you know as much as possible about the process.
For more information on what to ask before renting, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a message.