Apartment Shopping Tips for Those Out of Practice by Nicholl McGuire

 Apartments come in all shapes and sizes, and renting the right one can be a challenge. However, with the right information and knowledge of the current market, you can find an apartment at a great price. Here’s what potential renters need to know when shopping for an apartment.

Renters should start by understanding rental costs across the United States. According to the latest report from Apartment List, rental costs have increased 2.6% year-over-year in July 2020, with a median two-bedroom rent of $1,233 per month. This is lower than the national average of $1,487 per month for two bedrooms but still significantly higher than other major cities like New York and San Francisco.

It’s important for potential renters to also understand the rental market in their area and how it is doing compared to other cities. Property management companies across the United States are seeing an increase in demand, with some areas experiencing a shortage of available apartments. It’s important for renters to research their local market before making a decision.

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to start looking for an apartment. One of the best ways to find a great deal is by searching online. There are a variety of websites and apps that offer listings for available apartments in your area. These sites often have filters that allow you to narrow down your search based on criteria such as price range and amenities.

 It’s important to investigate the actual apartment before signing a lease. Pay attention to details such as noise levels in the neighborhood and safety features like security cameras or locks on doors. It’s also a good idea to check for any signs of damage, such as water leaks or mold.

By doing your due diligence and understanding the current market, you can find an apartment at a great price. With some research and knowledge of the available options, renting your first apartment doesn’t have to be a daunting task. 

Further, keep in mind that many rental companies offer discounts or additional incentives for signing a lease. Be sure to ask about any available offers and take advantage of them to get the best deal. Additionally, many rental companies offer temporary leases or flexible payment plans that can help renters save money in the long run. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the landlord or property manager for additional amenities or a lower rent. Doing so can help you get a great price on your next apartment.

Finally, make sure to budget for additional costs such as move-in fees, deposits, and other expenses that may come with renting an apartment. Taking the time to plan ahead can help you stay within your budget and get the most out of your rental experience. With a little bit of research and understanding of the current market, you can find a great apartment at a great price. 

Check out more useful tips on our blog about apartment rentals. This article has been around since 2011!

FAQs from Apartment Shoppers Answered by a Former Multi-Family Housing Property Manager

Looking for a new apartment can be daunting. Between finding the right neighborhood and sorting through all of the different floor plans, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's why we've put together this list of FAQs specifically for apartment shoppers, answered by our very own blogger, Nicholl, former property manager. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about renting an apartment! 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is right for me? 

 A: The best way to figure out if an apartment is right for you is to schedule a tour and see the unit in person. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the layout of the apartment and the surrounding neighborhood. Once you've toured the apartment, ask yourself if it feels like somewhere you could see yourself living happily for the next year or two. If not, keep looking! 

 Q: How can I tell if an apartment complex is well-maintained? 

 A: During your apartment tour, be sure to take note of the condition of common areas like the lobby, hallways, and laundry room. These areas should be clean and in good repair. If you see any signs of neglect, it's a good idea to move on to another apartment complex. 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is safe? 

 A: The best way to gauge the safety of an apartment complex is to speak with the property manager. They should be able to tell you about any security features that are in place, like gated entryways or on-site security guards. You can also ask your tour guide about the neighborhood surrounding the apartment complex and whether they feel it is safe to walk around at night. However, they will not provide any specific information.  They are trained to say things like, "Crime has no address."  They cannot guarantee your safety.

Q: What kind of maintenance or repair assistance can I expect from my apartment complex? 

 A: Most apartment complexes have staff members who are responsible for taking care of common areas and responding to maintenance requests from residents. If you have a specific question about what kind of assistance you can expect, be sure to ask the property manager during your tour. They should be able to give you a clear idea of what kinds of services are available. 

 Q: How do I know if an apartment is pet-friendly? 

 A: Some apartment complexes allow pets but with breed restrictions and some do not, so this is definitely something you'll want to clarify before signing a lease. If you do have a pet, be prepared to pay an additional deposit as well as pet rent each month. You may also be required to provide proof of vaccination and take your pet through a meet-and-greet with the property manager. 

 Q: How do I apply for an apartment? 

 A: The first step in applying for an apartment is to submit a rental application. This will include your contact information, employment history, and rental history. If you have no job, you will need to provide a substantial savings, proof of lottery winnings, or an impressive retirement portfolio.  Since each property management company has different requirements, call before you visit to find out what is acceptable proof of income. You may also be required to provide a credit report and background check. Once your application has been approved, you'll sign a lease and pay any required deposits or fees.  Most property management companies expect you to move in within two weeks of receiving approval. 

 We hope this list of FAQs has been helpful as you start shopping for your new apartment! Remember, the best way to find the perfect place is to take your time, tour several units, and ask lots of questions. To your success in finding a great place to stay!

Take your internet searches to the next level!  Discover websites you may not have ever thought of and learn how others are saving time, money, and using the latest innovative apps.  Get your copy of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? today!

What to Expect When Renting a Terrace Level Apartment or Lower Floor Unit for a Great Price

You see an apartment rental available and you are amazed at the price!  What, it can't be?  You are overjoyed with your discovery!  You don't care that it is terrace level maybe you don't even know what that is.  A terrace level unit is a ground level apartment complete with either a street view, garden view or a neighboring building--ugh.  Yes, you are starting from the bottom, but hey, one day you will be on top!  

Now I get that you want that bargain, that deal, a steal that is going to save you lots of money and make possibly a parent or partner proud.  However, are those headaches in the future worth it.  Shall I be your apartment rental prophetess?  Let's take you on a journey of what your challenges renting this unit might bring you!

1) Overhead noise, next door, and street level.

Loud walking, running or jumping might send you over the edge one day!  Without thick flooring in between floors and even thicker cement or brick walls separating you from your neighbor's boom tv, ear-splitting yells from children, frequent disputes with a partner, you will hear the noise!  

Before you rush to see the unit or sign a lease contract at the prompting of the friendly staff at the leasing office, notice what is around the rental unit's location.  Are there trees and bushes and no recreational areas?  Then maybe this might work out if you want that quiet secluded feeling, but there's still that neighbor overhead and possibly next door.  If there is street level parking, sporting areas or an active pool community, you will hear the noise but not so much if the windows are double-pane glass and if the communities are further away.  

Most leasing consultants and apartment managers will either downplay noise or will not speak on it at all, because they know you wouldn't lease especially if you already told them, "Listen, I don't do a lot of noise!"  However, if the price is right, they are hoping the noise won't be so bad after all for you.  "Wow, the unit is a few hundred dollars less!" you say. Yes it is, keep in mind there are plenty of not-so good reasons for this and you need to uncover what they are! 

2) Insects and rodents.

You live close to the ground so why wouldn't they visit?  The water and food source are conveniently located to possibly their nests, tunnels and other places they like to hide.  The last neighbor might have seen their ugly faces a little too much and so they ran him or her off!  So if bugs bother you, you will need to do your part to ensure they avoid your apartment as much as possible.  (I talk about this on the blog, look up my bug-proofing tips).  Do you have the time, money and energy to invest eradicating these critters long after pest control just walks through the apartment doing their money-grabbing quick spray?  Constant bug vistors need constant attention and the most powerful bait known to man.  Sure, get your bargain basement unit, but be prepared to fight bugs in the kitchen, bathroom and anywhere they plan to let you know who was here first!  

3) Neighbors who litter.

All glossy-eyed still over that price knowing you don't like noise and bugs, but hey, you got a plan, right?  However, the biggest bugs of them all are disrespectful neighbors who have a disregard for the environment.  Some of them sincerely believe that the ground is their trash can, so over the balcony they throw their cigarette butts, water bottles, uneaten food, wrappers, and some of you know the rest because you do it.  What a shame!  So the guys and girls in the leasing office didn't tell you that if the groundskeeper doesn't make it to your location on a daily basis or maybe not at all, that's right, you will be picking up after your nasty neighbors!  So there you go, saving money on renting the place, but taking on another role other than renter, trash picker-upper!

4) Sewage and water drainage systems and foundational cracks.

You're not a structural engineer and you don't know jack about drainage systems.  So guess what you are going to do, you're not going to inspect the building's exterior at ground level for foundational  cracks.  You will be too busy looking at the pretty stuff to see any mold and mildew while your ignoring your God-given gift of smell.  You most likely will casually stroll by the nearby pipes coming out of the ground covered or uncovered while your talking to the leasing professional about what, "I want...I need..."  You just might miss the plastic hoses that are suppose to redirect water away from the terrace level apartment.  They are just strewn here or there above ground.  Further, who cares about those drain downspouts starting to come off the building or those plastic rain gutters that are constantly moved by the landscapers.  

The next rainfall at that cheap unit just might bring more than you bargained for and maintenance knows it even if the leasing staff claims, "I'm so sorry, I didn't know." They probably really didn't know, they were thinking of their commission.  Fast forward you are living in that terrace apartment with the issues but you got it for a steal, you look out your window, "Is that freakin' poop on the patio, baby wipes and what the #@%$& is that?" you yell.  Yes, it is a sewage drain backup and I think you also have a leak coming from somewhere too!  Now who is going to clean that mess up?

5) Low-level windows

Ever feel insecure, watched scary movies, worried someone is going to see your open window and come right in.  The villain is there seated at your table eating a sandwich and drinking your favorite beer?  If the very thought of that scares you, then why are you even considering getting a lower unit?  But if you are that guy or gal who has protection waiting for the villain, then no worries there just secure your spot with all sorts of locks and alarms.

6) Poor lighting.

Unfortunately, with some apartment complexes, the terrace levels are just not well-lit--shadows in the breezeway, behind the building and elsewhere.  If there is ever a power outage with no emergency lighting, it can be pitch black walking down those stairs and sidewalks.  Keep your phone or a flashlight handy at all times especially if you work at night.

7) Flooding from above.

Oh yes, nothing like waking up to your neighbor's "issues" showering down on you--hope it wasn't the toilet overflowing!  It happens and you don't fully realize what you have gotten yourself into until you can't get a hold of maintenance or a plumber to help you in that moment!  You start to think back to when you toured the place and didn't pay attention to those old water markings or maybe they had been there the whole time but a little splash of paint prior to your arrival and it made yesterday's troubles just disappear.  Keep a bucket handy and a mop and/or a shopvac just in case you just got to get the unit, because there just isn't anything else out there, are you sure?

Now after all of that and you know what to expect, you may have no choice but to go forward until your money is right!  I get it, so with that said, invest in everything you need to bring you some comfort.  The leasing staff will not meet your every need.  Let me say that again for the stubborn one who thinks he or she can and will be happy forever and always after repeated phone calls and visits, the leasing and maintenance staff will not meet your every need especially if it costs alot and your issues are not what they consider an emergency!  Yeah, I know sucks.  So do your part, put your concerns in writing, record the unit, and reach out to a trusted friend who can be that second pair of eyes for you to see what you don't want to see!

Happy hunting!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of What Else Can I do on the Internet?  

6 Things to Do Before You Agree to Rent

1)  Walk the apartment that you will be staying in.

Look for things like mold, mildew, dead insects, mouse droppings, and soft spots on the flooring and walls.  Turn knobs, pull out drawers, and open doors.  By doing these things you will know if housekeeping, maintenance, and pest control are on top of their jobs.  If they can’t get a vacant right, then imagine what it would be like if a problem arises while you are living there.

2)  Be sure you are renting the apartment that you saw (not the model).

Sometimes what you see isn’t always what you get.  So if you toured a vacant apartment, be sure that is the one that you get.

Photo by Hans Eiskonen on Unsplash

3)  Note any unsightly appearances and problems with appliances prior to move in.

Be sure all issues are dealt with prior to move-in.  If you don’t, those problems might not be addressed during your stay.  Document your findings and send to the property manager and/or create a work order online if that service is offered.

4)  Review lease slowly and be certain that everything is correct especially the monthly dollar amount.

Never sign without going over pricing in detail otherwise you are legally bound to the contracted amount for the duration of the lease.

5)  Walk the property during the weekend and at night.

Find out what apartments are coming available then walk by them during the evening and night.  You are listening for noise, checking for litter, and noticing odd smells.  Chances are the former residents may have moved due to neighbors, but maybe not. If you can’t immediately view the apartment, this is the least you should do until the apartment becomes available.

6)  Check to be certain all amenities illustrated are included.

Unfortunately, some companies claim to have enjoyable amenities available to all, but upon move-in you realize that some amenities are being worked on or altogether removed.  You also discover some fees you may not have noticed during lease signing.  Know whether the amenities still exist or not and if there are related charges by doing the following:  walking the community and checking them out for yourself, ask residents whether they work, find out if residents are paying a fee to use, and check review sites looking for any unfavorable report about the amenities.

You can never be too sure about whether an apartment community is right for you so do your due diligence!  Hopefully, the staff is transparent with you and others from that first encounter, but if you should discover they are not, move on!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet? and other books.

New Year, New Location: The Apartment Shopping Plan

Whether you are comfortable for now where you live, but hope to move later in the year or you are ready like yesterday to move, but just can't at this time.  Either way, a comprehensive, yet simple plan for apartment shopping can be most helpful.

1) Consider what your interests might be.  People change.  What may have been most important when you were looking for a place about a year or so ago may not be now.  Re-evaluate what your apartment preferences are and write them down.

2) Check out the location you desire to live.  Will it be close to work or further away?  What does the area offer that would be beneficial to you and your family?

3)  If you are thinking about moving out of town, make plans to visit first.  Sometimes people do apply online for an apartment without seeing it first and all works out, but other times it doesn't.  If you are picky, sensitive to noise and smells, it is best to see the place in-person.  Plan those personal or vacation days so you can check the apartment community and the nearby city out.

Photo by Hans Eiskonen on Unsplash

4)  Don't seek out the cheapest, rather seek out quality.  Don't seek out a place with all the bells and whistles if you know you won't be utilizing everything.  You know what you can afford, but you don't have to settle for less and you also don't want to be at a costly apartment with little money left-over for groceries.

5)  If you haven't wrote out all your current expenses, you might want to do that before you sit down with a leasing professional.  It is embarrassing and a waste of time and money (application fees) when you view and apply for an apartment that is clearly out of your price range.  Although the professionals can be most helpful, they are also salesmen and women and their jobs are to get those vacant suites occupied.  

6)  Lastly, what is your timeline?  So many people don't have a clue when they are moving yet.  This can be a problem because the apartment you really like will not be held for you, the prices change often and you most likely won't get the best deal, and leasing professionals as well as prospects don't like to chase one another down for a response.  Know when you plan to move-in!

7)  Once you know your expenses, what you can afford, where you want to live and most of all your move-in date, schedule your appointments, stick to them and make a decision.  List which apartments you like best to least.  If you should be late or can't make it to a showing, communicate this to the staff.  First impressions can be lasting ones!  So be courteous and professional from the start!

Happy apartment shopping this year!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet and the owner of this blog.

Paranormal Activity in an Apartment, Town Home, House...is Real

The property manager, neighbors and even the maintenance crew might not ever tell you that the last residents moved out because they feared for their lives, they couldn't sleep, someone died in the unit, crazy things were happening in the rental, or their poor animal was warring with something that no one else could see.  But if you ever went through something like this, you know that the paranormal is real and yes they do occasionally stick around after death and refuse to leave.  You can't fight the unseen with natural techniques and if you think you can, well good luck with that.  You have to use a bit of spiritual warfare on them and if you don't know anything about that, then I suggest you look it up.

So you are shopping for a new place and let's just say you find out some disturbing things about it.  You have a choice: you can move in anyway and hope for the best, move in but have a team of people who know how to cast some demonic spirits out, or avoid the place altogether.  Whatever you decide, either way know that you will have your share of challenges.  You will need to keep worry, fear, and what someone else's negative experience in the place at bay.  The more people you tell about the history, in time what they say and their reactions just might make your skin crawl.

Odd things that I heard and other things I experienced or witnessed in some places I have moved (mind you I have moved 33 times to date during my adult years) included:

A pumping motion on my body during the night.
A presence of someone or something standing behind or next to me.
An entity that sat on my bed many times while I was trying to write a God-fearing spiritual book (yeah I know, could have been a good Spirit or an unrighteous one).
Weird unexplainable noises that made annoying sounds.
One of my children standing in fear of something the rest of the family couldn't see.
Another child stating an older lady was talking to him while he played in his room.
Two of my children talking to an imaginary boy who had a name.
My name being called and no one was there.
Walking on the floor and no one was at home.
Loud talking as if many people were in the room and then no one was there.
A feeling that many people were in a room, once again nothing you could see with the naked eye.

That's what I can remember from the top of my head.  One creepy thing I recall and I mentioned elsewhere on this blog is when I worked in the apartment industry at a multi-dwelling complex that was less than five years old at the time.  It was said that many people were injured while constructing that property.  Then I met one of the architects who was a Satanist.  Enough said.

So say a prayer before you go apartment hunting, it doesn't hurt.

Nicholl McGuire

On Apartment Shopping - How Do You Know You Will Hate the Place in the Future?

There are those signs that one will simply not like a seemingly appealing apartment, town home, rental house, or some other dwelling in the near future.  The property, the leasing consultant, and the interior of the unit draws you in--it makes you feel like you are at home.  However, if you aren't discerning you will overlook signs that what looks beautiful will be an ugly nightmare for you in the future.  So what to look out for?

1)  Perform a sniff test.  The scented fragrances that one smells while on tour mask things like mold and mildew.

2)  Observe the walls, flooring and ceiling.  As you walk notice, how the flooring feels under your feet.  Are there soft patches, bumps, and other things that just might end up being quite annoying for you in the future?  What about holes, mildew and markings on walls?  Run your hand over the wall and feel for soft spots.  Check for past or present signs of water damage on walls and ceilings too.  These things are typically covered up--that is until you move in and experience a major rain fall.  Don't forget to check for dead insects (or alive ones) in each room.  If you notice a pattern, chances are the apartment has a history of insect and/or rodent problems.  Look out for feces.

3)  Open up cabinets, doors, and other things and notice imperfections.  Once again perform a sniff test.  Sometimes broken doors, hinges, and other things are carefully placed back without being fixed.  If you don't test them, you just might find out when you move in when a cabinet door handle ends up in your hand.

4)  If electricity is on, turn light switches on and off and listen for any sounds that might indicate an electrical problem.  Notice lighting flickering not just in one room but throughout the unit.  You don't want to discover that when you plug in your computer and other devices that outlets no longer work or frequently go out and fuses need to be replaced more than necessary.

5)  Visit the rental on a weekend when everyone is home.  Listen for noisy neighbors and notice where they park, how close are the community areas from your windows, and other things that might be problematic for you especially if you value your peace and quiet.

6)  Pay attention when residents approach the leasing consultant or visit the office.  Listen to what they say and watch their demeanor.  Are they happy being there?

The more you can find out about the dwelling BEFORE papers are signed the better.  You don't want to end up hating the place simply because you didn't perform your due diligence.  Talk with residents after speaking with the leasing agent.  What is snow and garbage removal like?  Are things like the security gate working properly and is it well-lit at night?  What is it that people don't like about staying there and what is it that they do enjoy?  Stop by unannounced through the week after business hours, observe the community and the people.  By doing this, you will get a good idea whether or not the place really is what it appears to be.

Nicholl McGuire is the owner and manager of this blog.
When you notice unsightly things don't agree to move in until repairs have been made otherwise you just might be stuck with them for the duration of your lease term.

Moving Advice + Apartment Hunting Tips + Tricks - Carly Cristman

General Tips for a Rewarding Apartment Renting Experience

VLOG| Apartment Hunting - Finding My Dream Loft! - Downtown Dallas

Looking for an apartment today?

For years, this blog has been active when it comes to apartment shopping, advice, and assistance with rental housing.  Take a moment to scroll around and you will find rental information you may not have thought of when it comes to apartment and housing rentals.

A thought comes to mind when I think of first time apartment and home renters.  One thing is for sure, if a landlord, community manager, or leasing consultant knows that you have money in hand and desperate to rent a residence, he or she is most likely going to be more pushy about getting you to put up some money and even sign a lease then a person who isn't prepared to rent.  It is always best to keep what you have or don't have to yourself.  Avoid saying things like:

1.  I just got my tax refund so I am looking to sign a lease today if the price is right.
2.  My dad and mom will help me with the money, I just need to find a place right now.
3.  I don't have much money, but this place is sure nice.
4.  My husband has a good job so money isn't a problem.
5.  I need a place like yesterday, what do you have?
6.  I don't really know what I want...I mean I've been to a lot of places...yours seems okay.
7.  I just got out of a bad relationship, my kids are complaining about the place we are in...I'm broke.

A professional might talk you into getting a loan, borrowing money from a relative, tell you how the rentals are going fast, get you to put some money down on a place even when you need money right now for other things, persuade you into getting a suite that you don't really like because it is cheaper, and he or she might even offer an incentive just so that you will feel obligated to lease.

Take your time when shopping for rental housing.  Always say, "Thank you, but I have some other things to do, I will think about it.  I don't like to make any hasty decisions."  Of course, the professional will follow with something clever to your rebuttal, but keep walking out the door.

Sometimes an application might not be given when requested, this is so that you will come back.  The manager might request money to hold the place.  You might even be talked into bringing the person back you plan on borrowing money from.  Don't cause family conflict by saying, "Yes" to anything that parents, a partner or roommate might not agree with you about.

Apartment shopping is like window shopping, you aren't buying anything.  You are just taking the time to discover what is out there, learn more about the unit, the community and surrounding neighborhood.

Visit the area more than once.  Stop by the community on days when people aren't working.  Listen and watch for signs that the apartment suite is indeed quiet, comfortable and to your liking.  Hard to rent apartments and other housing will feel like they are being pushed on you by staff.  When visiting the place, attention will be taken away from the noise of neighbors, the worn out fixtures, unsightly ceiling and flooring, what is hiding in cabinets, etc.  Trust your eyeballs, your nose, and all other senses when you apartment shop today.

To your success,

Nicholl McGuire

Know What You Need - Apartment Hunting

When you're asked, "What you're looking for?"  Be ready to answer this question.  The landlord, owner, or leasing consultant doesn't know you, but you are aware of your needs, so be prepared to say what you want when apartment shopping.

Before you begin your next apartment hunt you should already know the following things:

1.  When you want to move?
2.  Whether you have the application fee, a deposit and at least two month's worth of rent.
3.  Your credit history.
4.  The kind of suite you want.
5.  The amenities that you will use (not what you hope to one day use).
6.  A busy, quiet, or semi-active neighborhood.
7.  The type of people you don't mind living nearby. (Due to Fair Housing Laws, the apartment staff can't help you with this, so be observant).

Lack of money, noise sensitivity, personal prejudice, and other issues will affect how you view a community.  So why suffer for a year moving somewhere you know you will not like much after the newness of convenient shopping and a lovely pool wear off?  The issues that come with a large complex will be there.  The noise of busy streets will drive you mad if you enjoy peace and quiet. Don't forget if you have personal hang-ups with social class, same sex couples, and a certain ethnicity or two, those issues don't go away either no matter how much you talk yourself into being more understanding.

Take your apartment shopping experience seriously and don't permit others to persuade you into committing to something you know deep inside you just don't want.  Pay close attention to the environment and don't be distracted by pretty things, discounted rent, and other specials.  Check out more entries on this site about apartment shopping.  After reading many of them, you will be well-prepared to make a good decision.

Best wishes to you!

Nicholl McGuire also shares tips at Workplace Problems, see here. 

Dos and donts of apartment hunting

Know Your Rights - Fair Housing 101: Race and National Origin

Beware of those who will claim they don't speak English, when what they are really doing is populating the community with their own ethnicity.

How to Evaluate a Rental Apartment

Has this happened to you while shopping for an apartment?

Take names of the leasing agents and report them to corporate.  They are supposed to help you!  Finding a place to stay is important and should be treated as such!

A Good Example of an Upgraded, Clean Apartment

One who hasn't shopped for an apartment in a long time may have forgotten what to expect when touring a rental.  So often landlords get away with renting problematic suites, because they assume that someone who has never rented an apartment or hasn't moved into one in a long time doesn't know much.

Upgraded suites tend to have many features that are appealing.  This is because the buildings are usually quite old and the only way to get prospects interested in the community again is to upgrade.  From playground and pool amenities to new sink fixtures, the landlord is going to do what it takes to ensure that his or her property is appealing.

So when visiting a rental, check for the upgrades, notice the cleanliness of the apartment--pay particular attention to any possible rodent or insect droppings along crevices and under cabinets, and most of all use your smelling and touch senses.  Sniff around for bad smells, notice soft spots in flooring walls, and wood surfaces.  By doing these things, you are checking for mold, mildew, and shoddy maintenance work.

See example photos below:

 

No unsightly carpet stains or wall markings.  Fresh paint job with added color for appeal.

 

Kitchen area clean.  No grease stains or ugly markings on cabinets.  Knobs intact.  Stove works.  Some communities might expect you to supply your own microwave and refrigerator.

 

Counter tops upgraded, nice to view.  Upgraded sink fixtures.  Once again clean, ready to move in!

 

Blinds are intact, no stains or cracks.  This should be expected.

 



Apartment Shopping: Know What You're Paying For Before Lease Signing

Distracted by the glitz and glamor of a nice, clean community, a potential resident walks into a leasing office and says,"Hello, I'm interested in a two bedroom apartment, can I look at one?"  The leasing consultant answers, "Of course!  How soon are you looking to move?"

The excitement and stress of looking for a new place to stay can be overwhelming, but definitely worth it when you find what you are looking for.  But how much space do you really need and is it necessary to pay extra for things you know you aren't going to use?

When apartment shopping, the leasing consultant may or may not mention the following during your tour, but you might be paying extra for them:

1.  "The monthly rent is...plus utilities."  You should be wanting to know how much more in addition to rent is the electric, water, trash, or whatever else you might have to pay fees per month.  Are you also paying for additional services when you don't really have to?  Notice the wiring, heating, and air conditioning units (separate or shared) and other connections.  Ask how much utilities like electricity and gas typically cost per month.

2. "We offer a service to our residents..."  Did your tour guide mention "FREE"?  If not, you most likely will pay extra for that service whatever it might be.

3.  "In addition to paying for...you will also need..."  "How much is that going to cost and do I really need it," you should be thinking.

4.  "Our community has a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, party room, business center, concierge service, work-out facility, play area..."  The more features the property has, the more the residents will pay in rent.  Will you be utilizing all of these features?

Too often people realize soon after paying the first month's rent and utilities that they didn't need everything that was offered to them.  Then what usually happens is the resident wants something smaller or desires to move elsewhere because "...they don't charge for water...I don't have to pay for any additional services..."  Unfortunately, most community managers will not let a new resident out of his or her leasing contract because of buyer's remorse.  

7 Things Renters Shouldn't Do When Seeking an Apartment

When people seek rental properties, they tend to do some things that will only cause them headaches in the future or worse jail time.  Think before you make a move that might cost you much legal, financial and emotional trouble.

One.  They lie on applications.

Future renters get off to a poor start with management when it is discovered they have lied about things like income, criminal history, who will be living in the home, debt, and more.  It is better to tell the truth and be rejected then to one day be faced with an eviction notice that most likely will damage your credit history.

Two.  They sublet even when they are warned not to.

Renters put themselves at risk once again of being removed from their suite when they say they are living at the home, but not really.  Therefore, a relative or friend can leave the apartment at anytime while putting the renter's good name in jeopardy.

Three.  They bring insects with them.

Knowing that one has had a serious insect problem in the last home, why would they take a chance on bringing all the infestation with them to their new home?  But people do.  It is always best to spray or use an insect bomb repellent on your items before moving them.  Check for nests that might live inside your furniture, electronics and elsewhere when you know you have a problem.

Four.  They expect the leasing office staff to do everything for them.

From wanting a date from the pretty blond seated at the desk to asking staff to handle their personal business and errand running, these are things that shouldn't be requested from the leasing staff.  Their jobs are to get renters into a suite and help them maintain it, but not handle their personal business.  Avoid the temptation to get the busy staff involved in your affairs.

Five.  They tell shady acquaintances where they are thinking about living.

Some renters are moving because they are having trouble with certain individuals from the last place or hope to cut off ties with others.  Yet, they will keep in contact with these troubled characters and then tell them where they stay.  When problems begin to show up, they act as if they didn't know someone behaved like this or that.  If you know or suspect that someone is annoying, troubled and the like, don't invite them to your new place.

Six.  They destroy their old apartment and then share this information with management.

Management isn't asking you why you are looking for a place or what happened at the last place to cause you to want to move for nothing.  They are looking for prospects to reveal what they did or didn't do at the last place.  So when someone says something like, "I was so angry one day I punched a hole in the wall, but I paid for it though...Then I got mad at my lady and broke the door handle--you know those handles are cheap anyway."  What this person is really telling the leasing consultant, "I'm a hot-head and I might be trouble for your company and my neighbors."

Seven.  They anger others by doing things that might put them at risk of losing their apartment.

Neighbors don't mind complaining about people who play loud music, have unruly children, and have far too many parties and traffic coming and going out of their homes.  When this happens, the leasing staff will most likely tally up the complaints and work to get the nuisance neighbor off the premises--don't let that be you!

Think about these seven tips.  Make adjustments to your current living arrangement as needed.  Then prepare to sit down with the leasing staff worry free.  Be sure that you are making every effort to be an ideal candidate.  Good suites come and go and if you see one you really like, you want to be the renter that stands out above all the rest!  You might want to get a few reference letters to take along with you in the future just in case you see a suite you got to have.

Nicholl McGuire also maintains a blog for people who are in intimate relationships or dating.  See here.

When Shopping for a Rental Property What Might You Bring?

1.  Driver's license, state id or other documentation if you live overseas.  If address is not current on your identification, then bring a bank statement or utility bill that shows your current address.

2.  At least enough money to cover an application fee and a deposit to hold the suite or security deposit if you plan to move in right away.

3.  Pay stubs for at least the past three or four months.  If you have yet to receive payment from your employer, bring a job offer letter that includes the amount of money you will be paid.

4.  Utility bill or other documents that show you are current on bills and paid off/settled debts ie.) bankruptcy discharge.  Sometimes conducting a background check will reveal that a potential renter has past issues that might hinder him or her from renting.

It helps to call the company you are interested in renting from to see if there is anything else you might need in case you decide to do business.