Rental Hunting: A Detailed Checklist
When you’re looking for a new place to live, there are a lot of details to check. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the process of searching and touring.Lease lengths
Not all apartments require a standard 12-month commitment, so ask the property manager or leasing agent about available lease terms.Communities often offer shorter and longer lease lengths, and some even offer month-to-month options. Shorter leases often come with a higher monthly premium while longer leases are typically better value, so weigh the costs against your need for flexibility.
Always ask what happens at the end of the lease—whether it automatically transitions to a month-to-month agreement or requires a brand-new contract.
Rent collection and increases
Understanding how and when you pay rent is crucial. Clarify the exact rent amount and ask how the property collects payments. Many property managers use online portals that accept bank transfers or credit cards, but some might charge a convenience fee for certain methods. Find out exactly when rent is due and the cost of any late fees.Furthermore, ask about historical rent increases. Knowing how much and how often rent increases helps you determine if the rental fits your long-term budget. Keep in mind that rent changes daily as supply and demand fluctuate, so seasonal moving trends may impact your renewal offer.
Additional fees
Base rent rarely reflects the total amount you’ll pay each month, so ask for a complete list of mandatory extra charges. Common extra costs include parking fees for a reserved space, monthly amenity fees, valet trash charges, and package locker fees. Get these numbers upfront so you can calculate your true monthly living expenses accurately.Security deposit
Before you sign anything, you need to know the exact security deposit amount. Request a clear, written explanation of what conditions must be met to get your deposit back.Specials and concessions
Landlords often offer move-in specials to attract new tenants, such as a month of free rent or a waived application fee. Some rent concessions are only available if you tour, so don’t forget to ask the property manager about look and lease specials.Utilities
Clarify how you’ll pay utilities. Some properties include utilities in the rent price, while others require tenants to set up and pay for utilities on their own. If utilities are billed through the property, ask if they use a flat rate or charge tenants based on usage.Pet policy
If you plan to bring a furry friend, the pet policy can make or break your decision. You’ll usually encounter a combination of upfront non-refundable pet fees, refundable pet deposits, and monthly pet rent, so make sure you know exactly what you’ll pay.Ask about breed and weight restrictions, as many communities maintain strict guidelines, and check for pet-friendly amenities like dog parks or pet waste bins.
Appliances and finishes
Take a close look at the items inside the unit. Ask if the unit has a washer and dryer, or if you’ll need to bring your own. Check whether the stove is gas or electric, and look at the quality of the flooring, countertops, and kitchen appliances.Community security
Your comfort and safety depend heavily on how well the property is managed. Look for controlled access points, well-lit parking areas, and secure package delivery rooms. Ask if there are security cameras throughout the property’s exterior and an in-unit security system.Maintenance
Ask how the property manager handles maintenance requests. A reliable property should offer an online system for submitting work orders and provide a 24/7 emergency contact number for urgent issues like a burst pipe or a broken heater. Finding out if the maintenance crew works directly for the property or as outside contractors can also give you insight into how quickly repairs get done.By knowing what to look for and asking the right questions, you can find the right place, protect yourself from unexpected costs, and sign a lease with confidence.
This article was originally published on May 14, 2015, by Steve Berto Bertolacci and has been updated.
