Apartment Renting 101

Can I get an overview of landlord tenant laws and apartment basics?

Knowing the landlord tenant laws in the state you will be living is an important thing to look into prior to actually securing an apartment, especially if this will be your first rental. The laws in every state have been enacted to lay the groundwork for an informed relationship between the two parties and can vary from place to place. Many of these details are spelled out in a document called a lease.

Landlords will often protect their rights by doing things such as a credit check and contacting former landlords or references given by the potential renter. This can help them to make sure a person will be a responsible tenant.

Those who are looking for an apartment will want to carefully evaluate the lease agreement to make certain they understand what will be expected of them, and that they can fulfill those obligations. The time to investigate tenant rights and responsibilities is before signing the lease and moving into a particular property.

Most landlords are already aware of the laws that outline the rental relationship in their state. Those looking to rent an apartment may want to check out the laws on the Internet before beginning their search in earnest, especially if they are a new arrival to the area.

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How can I make breaking a lease an easier situation?

Even if the apartment you are living in is the one of your dreams, you may at some point need to break the lease. Job promotions, caring for ill parents and getting married are all things that may cause you to need an "early out" from your rental. The conditions that guide any penalties for breaking the lease are normally outlined in the document itself.

Here are some things you can do to make this an easier situation for both you and your landlord:

• If you suspect you may need to end a lease early, see if the landlord would be willing to set you up with a shorter-term rental or a month-to-month lease. You can also look into an early release clause and see if that might be a solution.
• Let your landlord know as soon as possible about the need to move and see if they are willing to discuss options with you. Remember, the goal isn't just to get out of the lease, but to avoid leaving on bad terms or getting a mark on your credit history.
• Breaking a lease puts your landlord in a bad position. Try to be conscious of what you can do to make it easier. Subletting the property may be an option, but make sure you understand your responsibilities in this situation before agreeing to it.

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What are some tips for avoiding potential problems in an apartment rental?

When you are apartment hunting, know that there are some traps out there. Don't be fooled; use these tips for apartment hunting and avoid problems that could develop down the line:

• The time trap. Don't be lulled into a false sense of security and think you can find an apartment in a week. Sometimes it can take quite a bit of time to locate the right place. A good guideline is to start looking a month or two in advance to be on the safe side.
• The description trap. Listen carefully to what people are telling you and translate what it means. "Cozy" might mean warm and comfortable, but it can also mean small. "Unique" makes people think "one of a kind," but might just stand for "weird," and "charming" can mean old. Try to read between the lines.
• The pressure trap. Don't feel you have to take an apartment right away just because someone mentions that "other people are interested" or "it's in a hot area." Take your time deciding if a place is the right one for you.
• Not listening to your inner voice. Does something about the landlord bother you? Do you feel like the apartment has all the things you wanted, but just aren't sold on calling it home? Are you bothered by the weird smell in the hallway but dismiss it as no big deal? Listen to your gut feeling on things -- there may be a reason you are feeling the way you are.

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Why should I consider renting a post office box?

One thing you may want to consider when moving into a new apartment is post office box rental. If you don't have a secure area for your mail, or want to have additional privacy, it can be the perfect solution. It can also be a simple solution, as it is easier than other things, such as renting a car. Here are some of the best reasons to get one:

• It is inexpensive. Most post office boxes are not pricey and you can often opt to pay for your box in two separate installments rather than all at one time.
• You can retain a permanent address. If you move a good deal, this can save you a lot of hassle when it comes to getting your mail in a timely fashion.
• You have privacy. Only you can decide who gets to be on the box and have a key.
• It might be more convenient. You can opt to get a box that is close to your work so that you can receive your mail even before you return to the apartment.
• It is secure. Since the box is located in a building, you have the additional security of having eyes and ears around all of the time to make sure it is safe.

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What rental options are out there for apartment living?

When you are renting an apartment, you might want to consider the other rentals that are available to you. Whether you need temporary help, can't afford to purchase outright or are just looking for the least amount of hassle, here are some apartment renting 101 tips to think about during your time as a tenant:

• Storage for your things. Whether you want to rent some space in your parent's basement or go for a storage facility, it can be a good solution if you simply have too much stuff.
• Gardening equipment. This is a great choice for those living in an apartment that want to do some work in their yard but don't want the hassle of buying and storing equipment.
• A car, bicycle or scooter. Renting a car, bicycle or scooter can be a great temporary solution if you are waiting for your vehicle to ship or haven't yet saved up the money to buy something. You might even be able to split the cost with a roommate.
• Furniture. If your goods are being shipped cross-country or from overseas you might want to get a few items in the apartment to make life easier in the meantime.
• Electronics. You can rent items such as a DVD player if you are still saving for your own.
• Baby furniture. If you don't want to buy this outright and give away later or store, this can be a great option.

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What are some steps to take to prevent issues with rental items?

Whether you are renting furniture or a car, there are things you will want to keep in mind. Renting means that you are borrowing from somewhere or someone. It also means you are potentially liable for the item, so it can pay to know what your options are if something goes wrong. It also makes sense to take steps to prevent anything from happening to the rental. Here are some tips to make sure you are covered:

• Always read the fine print and ask questions. Know what the penalties are for late return and/or damage, and double-check them with someone in person.
• Protect the item. Park the car away from other ones. Cover rented sofas with a slipcover or blanket. Avoid placing rented glassware near doors or where crowds will be milling around. Think ahead so you are sure to treat things with care.
• Consider additional insurance. If you are particularly nervous about a rental, consider checking into a rider on your renters insurance or purchasing more through the company. This isn't always needed, but if it gives you peace of mind, you may want to do it.
• Return items early when possible and if there is no penalty for doing so. The less time you have something, the less risk is involved.

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