If you are a first-time apartment renter or haven’t rented in a while, you might have some questions about renting a new home. Topics like rental cost, amenities and security may be whirling around in your head.
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It’s important to address your questions and concerns. The best strategy to ease your anxiety is to make a list of questions to ask as you audition different apartment choices.
Here are some questions to get you started. Add your own, as you consider the important information you’ll want to know before you sign a lease.
Rent and regular expenses
- How much is the rent for the unit I’m interested in leasing?
- How long is the lease and what are the terms?
- When is the rent due and how do I pay: with cash, check or online bill pay?
- Is there an application fee?
- Is a deposit required?
- Will a credit check be performed?
- What is the average cost of utilities for a unit of this size?
- Are any utilities included in the rent?
- Are there extra fees for a garage, storage or pets?
Read more: Estimating How Much Apartment Utilities Will Cost
Apartment building and unit information
- What is the square footage of the apartment unit?
- Does the apartment come with a washer/dryer in the unit?
- When was the apartment built?
- Are there other size units/different floor plans currently available?
- What services are included in apartment maintenance?
- Is a community manager located on site?
- How do you reach the landlord or owner of the property?
Read more: 10 Questions to Ask When You Visit Apartments
Community and local amenities
- Is there a pool and/or fitness room?
- Are there areas for outdoor sports like tennis, volleyball and walking/running?
- Is there a designated pet walking area or park?
- Does the community have a clubhouse available for parties and events?
- Is there a business center?
- Is free Wi-Fi offered?
- Are there concierge services on site?
- Is there a laundry facility in the community?
- What are the closest restaurants, banks, gas stations, convenience stores or shopping areas?
- Where is the nearest hospital or urgent care center?
- Which schools and churches are located nearby?
Parking and safety
- Are parking spaces assigned to residents?
- Where do guests park?
- Is there a security patrol in the community?
- Do apartments have alarm systems installed?
Read more: How to Assess the Security of a New Apartment
These questions should get your search off to a great start. You might create your own checklist to fill out at each apartment community you visit. Then compare your notes to help you make your final decision. Happy apartment hunting!
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Kalim