All that Glitters Ain't Gold - Bad Rental Properties

Apartment leasing staff are typically told about a variety of issues in a rental property by the renters.  Some will address needs very quickly and rectify any persistent issues.  However, there are unfortunately unethical staff who couldn't care less about a lemon for a residence and will continue to show the property with promises to "get that fixed...it will be done before move-in" etc.

Issues that can be taken care of with a little paint, a decoration, or some other eye-catching piece are considered low cost expenses.  Yet, major problems that require much money may be put off for months even years with cosmetic treatments.  A little paint here, a cheap replacement part, a pretty little decoration to cover up the mess underneath, and other things are used to sell the residence.  In time, the problem water leak returns, the weird smell comes back again, stubborn insects decide to greet the new residents, and so on.

Too often newbie renters are impressed with how beautiful everything looks that they don't see the signs that say, "You have a future problem on your hands."  When residents are unhappy with where they are they will leave.  It isn't always a personal issue or life change that sends people packing, sometimes unmet needs has a lot to do with it.  From a toilet that is never fixed to an air conditioning unit that was supposed to have worked upon move on, renters are left feeling like they have been manipulated into handing their money over to a headache.

Some shoppers might think it is a good idea to walk the rental when a renter is at the home, so that he or she can speak with the person about the unit.  Sometimes this is a great way to find out the truth about the property, but other times it isn't, because the leaseholder will not divulge anything negative for fear of retaliation, loss of money, etc. particularly with the landlord or leasing professional standing right in front of him or her.  The staff know that the renter will want to be cooperative so that the property gets rented especially if the person wants out of his or her contract early.  So the renter is forced to keep his or her mouth shut about the problem rental so that he or she won't have to pay monthly rent as long as the property is empty.  Speak with an attorney if you are in a situation like this.  There are ways around this.

Think twice before you put your money down on a rental.  Be aware that apartment leasing staff are salesmen and women  at the end of the day, they have a boss to answer to and a paycheck like any other business professional.  Some are ethical and will do what is right, while others won't.

Search for the street address online to see what comes up about the property and/or neighborhood. Check review sites about the management company and also type the name of the property when researching.  Tell your social network about your find and ask if they know anyone who has dealt with the company.  Mention neighboring streets and request any details from your network about any problems (without giving specific details about where you hope to move).

To your apartment shopping success!

Nicholl McGuire