10 Tips for a Stress-Free Apartment Move During the New Year

Moving to a new apartment is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. From packing to organizing utilities, there’s a lot to think about. As a former apartment manager and leasing consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how preparation can make all the difference. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new 

1. Create a Moving Timeline 

Planning ahead is key to avoiding last-minute stress. Start by listing everything that needs to be done before, during, and after your move. Break tasks into weekly goals, such as notifying your current landlord, scheduling movers, and transferring utilities.  

2. Declutter Before You Pack 

Moving is the perfect opportunity to downsize. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or toss. Less clutter means fewer boxes, which saves time and money on your move.  

3. Research Movers Early  

If you’re hiring movers, book them as soon as possible. Check reviews, compare prices, and ask about insurance coverage for your belongings. If you’re handling the move yourself, reserve a moving truck or enlist friends for help.  

4. Pack Like a Pro 

Start packing non-essential items weeks in advance, leaving daily essentials for last. Use labels to mark boxes by room, and add a brief description of their contents. Keep valuables, important documents, and a small box of essentials (toothbrush, change of clothes, snacks) handy for the first night in your new apartment.  

5. Notify Your Landlord and Update Addresses 

Give your landlord proper notice according to your lease agreement. This not only ensures you get your security deposit back but also helps you maintain a good rental history. Don’t forget to update your address with the post office, banks, and subscriptions.  

6. Take Photos Before Moving Out 

Document the condition of your current apartment before handing over the keys. Photos serve as proof if there’s a dispute about damages or your security deposit.  

7. Measure Your New Apartment

Before moving day, confirm the dimensions of doorways, stairwells, and elevators at your new place. Knowing whether your furniture fits will save you from moving day headaches.  

8. Set Up Utilities in Advance 

Ensure your utilities (electricity, water, internet) are ready to go on move-in day. It’s no fun arriving at a new place only to find you don’t have lights or Wi-Fi.  

9. Plan for Cleaning  

Schedule time to clean your old apartment after moving out and your new one before moving in. This can help avoid cleaning fees from your landlord and ensures you start fresh in your new space.  

10. Know the Policies of Your New Apartment 

Every apartment community has its own set of rules and policies. Review your lease agreement to understand parking, pet policies, and maintenance procedures. Staying informed helps you avoid surprises and ensures you’re a considerate neighbor.   

With a little preparation and organization, moving doesn’t have to be stressful. These tips will help you tackle your apartment move like a pro, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home. Remember to check your lease agreements and apartment policies to stay informed every step of the way.  

Happy moving!

Nicholl McGuire is the owner and manager of this blog. Feel free to check out many helpful posts for over a decade of experience.

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 Do When a Landlord Refuses to Make Apartment Repairs?

Rent escrow is a process where a tenant withholds rent payments from their landlord in order to pressure the landlord into making repairs to the apartment. This can be an effective way to get a slum landlord to make necessary repairs, but it can also lead to eviction if the tenant does not follow the proper procedures. In most cases, the tenant must first notify the landlord of the needed repairs and give them a reasonable amount of time to make the repairs. If the repairs are not made within that time frame, the tenant can then begin withholding rent. The withheld rent is typically placed in an escrow account, and once the repairs are made, the tenant will release the funds to the landlord. While this process can be effective, it is important to note that it should only be used as a last resort after all other attempts to get the landlords to make necessary repairs have failed.

If you're a tenant in an apartment that's in need of repair, it can be difficult to get your landlord to take action. After all, it's in their best interest to keep costs low and maximum profits high. However, there are a few things you can do to try and get the repairs you need. First, it's important to document the problem. Take pictures or videos of the issues and keep a log of when they occurred. This will be helpful if you need to take legal action later on. Next, reach out to your landlord in writing and request that they make the necessary repairs. If they don't respond or refuse to take action, you can contact your city's housing inspection department and schedule an apartment inspection. The inspector will assess the apartment and if they determine that it's not up to code, your landlord will be required to make the necessary repairs. Finally, if all else fails, you can reach out to a lawyer or file a lawsuit against your landlord. While this may seem extreme, sometimes it's the only way to get them to take action. So, if you're struggling to get your landlord to make repairs, don't give up – there are still options available to you.  The following is a move-in experience that some of you might relate to.

After a month of waiting for her landlord to address the issues in her apartment, the resident started to feel frustrated and uncomfortable. The sink was clogged and creating a foul odor, the ac was dirty, loose fixtures were falling off, the washer and dryer weren't working properly, and there was a leak underneath the sink. She tried to reach out to her landlord, but he wasn't responding to her requests. So, she turned to a rent escrow service to help her get the repairs done.

Notice, she waited.  How long have you been waiting?

If you're renting an apartment, it's important to be aware of your rights when it comes to repairs and maintenance. According to the law, landlords are required to keep their rental properties in habitable condition. This means that they must make sure that the apartment is safe and clean and that all essential services (like heat, water, and electricity) are working properly. Once again, if your landlord doesn't want to make repairs, you have a few options. First, you can try to speak with them directly and explain why the repairs are necessary. If that doesn't work, you can contact your local code enforcement office or apartment association. In some cases, you may even be able to withhold rent until the repairs are made so do review your lease contract. However, it's always best to consult with a legal professional before taking any drastic measures.

How Do You Know You Have Outgrown an Apartment?

Like children, we outgrow some things in life and some of you are outgrowing your rentals.  You are giving everyone grief around you.  Driving through the apartment complex parking lot like a bat out of hell, you practically run to your apartment praying the whole way that no one stops to talk to you.  You are arguing with your roommates.  Talking badly about your neighbors.  You have thoughts of suing the landlord, the property management company, the contractors, and anyone else you meet almost weekly.  Yes, one has outgrown his or her rental dwelling.  So now what?  You start looking for a place like yesterday!  Stop talking yourself into staying at the rental, talk yourself out of it!

1) You know you have outgrown the apartment when more people have moved in since you first signed the lease.  You also know that you are breaking the rules when the leasing office is unaware that you have others living there.  You might be out sooner rather than later depending on the type of manager or management company that is running the place.  

2)  You understand since the early days of your moving there, you just aren't getting along with anyone such as: family members, the office staff, and your neighbors.  That's not a "they" problem, that's a you problem!

3) You look around and the place is just too small, too big, too something.  Yes, you need to make plans and get gone, Goldilocks!

4) When you go from room-to-room every time you use or look at something, it is broken and there is no getting anything fixed.  Now why are you paying rent again?  You might want to put your next rental payment in escrow while you're still under contract.

5)  You simply hate driving to and from the community.  You find yourself passing by the apartment complex with a sigh of relief on some days only to come back and say, "What the...?"  It's just too much going on at your spot, I get it.  

6) You have fantasized about doing awful things to the management.  Okay, let's not get carried away, to jail that is!  It's simply not worth it.

7) You know it's time to move when you find yourself spending more time everywhere else than where you stay.  

When you or someone else you know is thinking and doing things that scream, "Get me out!" It is safe to say that one has outgrown the apartment.  Time to go all out and find something that you really like.  In the meantime, until the lease is up or you have the money to pay the lease break fee, try to get some things done in your humble abode that will make you feel a bit at ease.

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

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?  

Rent is Due - Avoid the Hassle, Pay as soon as possible

Something that I didn't focus on as much as I do now (mind you over a decade later) money!  I am back as an assistant manager in property management and the focus these days, rent collection!

You see, I didn't have that issue back in the day.  People simply paid their rent and mostly on time.  But these days, we have our share of renters who don't stay on top of rent payments (sigh).

Here's what some of you who rent apartments can do to save yourself a lot of headache in the future especially with the holidays coming up!

1)  You know you can't pay the full amount well in advance, contact your landlord/manager.
Why do that to yourself, mentally worry about the rent?  If you have no way of paying all your rent by deadline, you know what to do, call or stop by the Leasing Office.

2)  Cut your personal spending at least two to four weeks weeks prior to rent being due.  (You really don't need another thing on Amazon when your rent is due like next week.)  There is no one or nothing as important as having a roof over your head.  Stop caring about holidays and gift-giving and pay your rent on time every time!  If you must do it all, consider additional sources of income like a part-time job for starters.

3)  Have a list of helpful resources in case you need assistance paying rent.  Reach out to charities online, support groups, nonprofit organizations and even places that provide rental assistance based on your profession or club association.  Explore those options before calling the office once again saying, "I'll be late with rent..."

4)  Watch your communication with your landlord and neighbors whether online or offline.  Interesting how people want some understanding when they are in a tough situation, yet they will talk disrespectful, complain, and downright act rude.  You never know what connections your landlord might have to help you, it would make sense to be professional and polite, now wouldn't it?

5)  Lastly, if all else fails, start shopping around for a cheaper place to stay.  Some community managers will cut you a break if you must end your lease early.

Things to do to be sure your rent is on time next month:

1) Take a portion of your first check (at least 40% and put it toward the rent in a separate account).  Your second paycheck put aside 60%.

2)  Calculate all utility expenses and set that amount aside each month.  You can get an estimate of what upcoming utilities might be by looking at a ledger that details how much you have paid in the past.

3)  Don't allow any adult to stay at your place, eat from your fridge, or use your water without making a contribution to your household.

4)  Avoid paying for a pet when you know you can't make ends meet.  Find out if someone else can care for your pet until you can get on your feet.

5)  Research ways to make additional money.

6)  Consider making a home purchase if you can afford it.  The monthly mortgage payments might be a better option for you, but keep in mind you will need to save more money in the event an appliance needs to be replaced or something needs to be fixed.

7)  Consult with a financial planner and a debt consolidation agency to assist with your current debt and investments.  You will find you are probably paying too much interest on credit cards and spending far more money than you can afford.

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

What to Expect After Filling out a Rental Application

Since there are rules in every state, do check out what are the requirements in yours.  This post provides a general list of what to expect after you turn over your application to a property manager or leasing consultant. 

Every rental application will have an app fee.  Anyone 18 and older is required to fill out an application even if they will not be paying rent.  Sometimes a property management company may waive it if conducting a special.  Rental applications will also require all pertinent information to be filled out such as:

Full name

Address

Birth Date

Driver’s license information

Social Security or other government-issued photo identification that shows a lawful presence in the United States

Employment and other income sources

Once the applicant turns in the form along with the fee, if not waived, to the leasing professional the following will occur.

The company will use a third party source to conduct screenings to see if the applicant qualifies.

Credit Screening

Unsatisfactory credit report

Excessive collection accounts including utilities

Applicants who have more negative than positive credit history

Bankruptcy (regardless of discharge) or repossession. 

Rental housing evictions and collections.

Unresolved tax liens.

An additional security deposit may be required or a co-signer may be requested depending on what is found on the credit report.

Criminal History Screening

All convictions do not result in an automatic denial of an application or lease renewal.  However, the following will be reviewed:

Sexual crimes

Physical crimes

Financial crimes

Terrorism

Wanted Fugitives


The application process should be easy.  Meeting rental criteria is mandatory.  Property management companies are well aware of Fair Housing Laws.  If you should feel you are being discriminated against despite meeting the criteria, contact your local Fair Housing Rights Office and file a complaint immediately.

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and the author of many nonfiction books located on Amazon.

Other Apartment Rental Fees: Why Pay a Rental Application Fee?

When you have visited so many properties, those application fees can add up quickly!  This is why it is better to order your credit report in advance and know what it has on it.  Clear up any discrepancies and then place an application only with the property you like the most.  All others are best left on the “just in case” list.  Basically, you are putting those properties aside if you can’t for some reason qualify for the one you like the most.

Most properties require a set amount of money to be earned each month in order to income qualify.  Usually you know whether you will meet qualifications or not without paying an app fee simply by asking for and reading the rental criteria at each property.  Once you are ready to fill out a rental application at your favorite place, then you pay the app fee not just for yourself, but anyone staying with you over the age of 18.  Occupants will also need a credit and criminal background check as well.

When you have visited so many properties, those application fees can add up quickly!  This is why it is better to order your credit report in advance and know what it has on it.  Clear up any discrepancies and then place an application only with the property you like the most.  All others are best left on the “just in case” list.  Basically, you are putting those properties aside if you can’t for some reason qualify for the one you like the most.

Most properties require a set amount of money to be earned each month in order to income qualify.  Usually you know whether you will meet qualifications or not without paying an app fee simply by asking for and reading the rental criteria at each property.  Once you are ready to fill out a rental application at your favorite place, then you pay the app fee not just for yourself, but anyone staying with you over the age of 18.  Occupants will also need a credit and criminal background check as well.

The fee is usually paid via money order or cashier check if there is no debit or credit card reader on site.  Checks are usually not accepted since it takes awhile for them to clear. Cash is typically not accepted due to security reasons.

The rental application fee is used to cover the costs of the credit report and background check.  If most of the information comes back positive, you are approved and then any additional fees owed will be calculated.  If there are no rental specials, those fees might include:

Administrative Fee

Security Deposit

Prorated Rent (if you are moving during the middle of the month)

1st Month Rent

All are due upon move-in.  Other fees renters will incur over the duration of the lease may include:

Water, Sewer and Trash

Electricity and Gas

The lease should list all of what the renter pays for.

As you see the application fee is the start of other fees ahead.  However, it is very important to pay this fee if one wants to be considered for an apartment.  You can always ask if this fee could be waived.  The fee is usually paid via money order or cashier check if there is no debit or credit card reader on site.  Checks are usually not accepted since it takes awhile for them to clear. Cash is typically not accepted due to security reasons.

Happy Apartment Shopping!

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

Your Miserly, Mooching Roommate: Know When to End the Lease

Good roommates are hard to find.  When you have one, you stick it out, make it work!  But when you are finding yourself increasingly stressed just being in that person’s presence it’s time to reconsider renewing the lease with a mooch.

A mooch is someone who begs, borrows, and steals things that doesn’t belong to him or her.  A person like this is also miserly, selfish, and may even have his or her share of personality disorders.  With a roommate like this, you are often stressed, worried that the mooch will once again help his or herself to your stuff, and when disputes do occur you are angrier than most people having similar arguments.  You are simply tired of having to instruct this selfish person, watch his or her hands, hide your items, question about missing things, ask for money borrowed back, and more. 

The stingy mooch systematically does things to avoid paying for items while cutting down on current expenses he or she may have once agreed to pay but doesn’t like or want to continue to pay.  The excuses are endless as to why certain things are not bought or maintained.  Here is a list of some shady practices many selfish roommates do:

1)  They lie about how much they paid for something while hoping you don’t use too much of it.

2)  They cut costs most often without warning and you find out the hard way that they are no longer paying for certain services.

3)  They sit back and wait for others to pay for items and then they will begin to use them.

4)  They will make false claims about not having any money to assist with expenses especially those that they don’t believe are important.

5)  They will make small purchases that solely benefit them.

6)  They will act as if what minute contributions they make to the household are worth acknowledging and when one doesn’t, they behave immaturely even vengeful.

7)  They won’t financially assist when the going gets rough and will ignore your please for help.

Miserly roommates’ objective is to find various ways to use your money for as long as they can while they pocket the majority of theirs.  When you notice that you are being taken advantage of and you speak to your roommate about it, he or she will not appreciate your feedback.  This is when he or she will start to behave abusively.  Some things that they will do to financially abuse you:

1)  Steal your financial information.

2)  If you should lose your job, he or she will act very mean and controlling while reminding you that they “…paid for this…or that...”

3)  He or she will name-call and tell you how you are “Stupid, irresponsible, ignorant…when it comes to making/saving money.  No wonder you are always broke!”

4)  He or she will buy enjoyable items for self and purposely leave you out.

Photo by KaLisa Veer on Unsplash

5)  You will notice that most purchases are small inside and are not meant to be shared with others.

I have come across my share of cheap roommates who didn’t appreciate having to pay the majority of the bills.  However, I didn’t make no where near what they did so what sense did it make to take care of all expenses?  The twisted mindset of selfish people with personality disorders is a “Do for me…”  When they can’t accomplish using you in the way that they would like, this is when  they resort to abusing you.

If you have a history with a roommate that has included any of the following: threatening behaviors, hitting, kicking, breaking up your belongings, stealing your identity or credit cards, do not plan to sign a future lease with him or her.  Make plans to move on without this not only financially abusive person, but physically abusive as well.

Nicholl McGuire

10 Tips on Tidying Up Apartment for Inspection

Most apartment communities have an annual apartment inspection.  During this time it is important to be sure that you are following the terms of your lease agreement.  Otherwise, you might find your self having to pay for current damages, later lose your security deposit or worse sued or evicted.  So be sure you take a look at your lease prior to the inspection and make adjustments where necessary.

1) Carpet Cleaning

It isn’t a big deal to have your carpet cleaned prior to an inspection unless it is hideous and smells foul due to pets.  Some property management companies might offer carpet cleaning to residents who renew their leases earlier.  Do ask what specials are provided if you plan to stay another year.

2) Window Treatments

If the curtains are uniform with the outer appearance and/or blinds that were already installed in the apartment prior to move-in have not been removed typically there is nothing to be concerned about.  However, if the lease agreement says anything about the window treatments staying up or they must be uniform, you might want to put them back up prior to the inspection.

Photo by Mike Marquez on Unsplash

3) Housekeeping

The apartment will be checked to see that it is clean which includes no visible signs that insects are living with you.  However, if they are you should be calling the leasing office before the inspection so that pest control can come out and take care of the problem.  Cleaning might include: dusting, vacuuming, hanging up clothes, picking up belongings from the middle of the floor, mopping floors, cleaning toilets and sinks, and removing trash.

4) Paint and Other Personal Handy Work

It isn’t necessary to paint anything, but if there were unapproved paint jobs, murals, or challenging handy work that involved major changes to the place, this will be a problem for the staff to sell the suite in the future since it doesn’t look like the others.  Be prepared to pay much to have the suite renovated back to the way it originally looked no matter how much you disliked it prior to your “improvements.”  The leasing staff has to sell a suite based on what is being advertised to the public.  Anything else would be a lie.  If the changes aren’t drastic, you might get the pass, but don’t make any additional personal improvements.  

5) Pet Violations

The apartment will be inspected to be sure you are following pet rules like taking the animal out to perform general activities.  Believe it or not, some pet owners do not consistently take their pets out so they are left to roam within the apartment to expel waste.  This of course causes damage to the flooring as well as creates an offensive odor to all who live near the inconsiderate resident.  Another issue is the resident complaints that a neighbor suddenly has a pet that may also be breaking the breed restriction rules.  If a resident didn’t pay a pet security deposit and is not paying monthly rent for the pet, he or she is violating the lease agreement.  The resident will be asked to remove the pet or pay the fees; if not he or she most likely will be faced with an eviction.

6) Hoarding

The staff will make a note of an excess of items that might pose a potential health risk.  From clothes to people, if the space is crowded you will be asked to rent a bigger space.

7) Hazardous Materials or Equipment

Your apartment is not the best place to store flammable liquids from work or materials that are a disturbance to neighbors.  Chances are someone complained about what is happening in your apartment whether it is a smell, strange sounds, or something that is affecting one’s well-being.  The hunt is on to look for the problem belongings and when found you will be told to store them elsewhere.

8) Damages to Walls, Windows, Doors, or Appliances.

The staff will be checking for anything that should have been reported.  Arrangements will be made to have those items fixed if the resident makes the request.  Anything that the security deposit doesn’t cover will be billed to the resident and expected to be paid along with the rent.

9) Water, Gas and Heat

If all is working properly, nothing to be concerned about, but if not request that maintenance take a look prior to the inspection.

10) Electrical outlets

They will probably not be checked unless you bring attention to what is working and what is not.

Other items that might be noticed are non-working faucets, holes in floors, broken shelves, and doorknobs.  If they aren’t observed, once again let the staff know especially if these things had never been checked or fixed after you moved in.

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

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.

Check Your Lease: Domestic Violence is One Way Out of Your Agreement

You didn't anticipate that your partner was going to act like a fool!  He or she acted threatening and then before you knew it you were struck by this person who once claimed they loved you so much.  OMG!  Yeah, so what are you going to do?  Well here's what you don't want to do that will mess up your credit and possibly cause additional problems that you simply can't afford.

1) Pack up and move without saying one word to your landlord.

2)  Fail to report damages in the apartment.

3)  Lie to cover up your part in the dispute to authorities and to get out of your lease.

4)  Kick your roommate or partner out without letting the leasing staff know what occurred.  Now you are short rent.

5)  Forget that your abusive partner has a right to his or her belongings in the apartment as long as he or she remains on the contract.

There are more and more leasing contracts being drafted to make it easier for domestic violence victims to get out of their agreements.  However, there is also an influx of liars.  Therefore, if there is no police report, court hearings, and other information to validate a legitimate reason to get out of the contract, you will still be bound to your lease.  You don't have to live there, but without proof of abuse, you are still obligated.

Nicholl McGuire is the author of Too Much, Too Soon Internet Dating Blues and other books.

When Can the Landlord Enter Your Rental?

You have been away for awhile and you notice that someone has entered your apartment without so much as a notice, uh oh!  Your apartment is not open to maintenance or apartment management to go and come as they wish after the lease contract has been signed.  However, there are those who might think otherwise.  This is why you have to do your part to ensure your rights are not violated.

A woman told me she was leaving her current dwelling because the landlord thought it was okay to visit her apartment while she was working.  She believed the owner was looking to get her in trouble even though she was a U.S. citizen.  She wasn't harboring any fugitives and wasn't doing anything to break the law, so why the invasion of privacy?  She also noticed strange holes in her wall as if someone was behind it looking in at her.  She covered those halls and lodged a complaint with her landlord who she suspects was behind the holes.  In her situation, I recommended security cameras, notifying neighbors of someone possibly entering her apartment in her absence, and filing a report with the police.

So when should the landlord and maintenance enter your apartment?  Check your lease contract and other paperwork you may have signed.  They are suppose to call first and possibly leave a notice on your door or in your apartment that they have entered your unit while you were away. The staff should only be entering when there is an emergency such as a water leak, damage to the apartment, electrical problem that might potentially lead to a fire, or a wellness check because a relative or friend is concerned about your safety or pet in your absence.  Yet, if reasons are not listed in a contract and there is no notice left behind, you have every right to question why they needed to enter your apartment while you were gone.

A resident was upset to find some items moved around in her apartment, she didn't go in.  She immediately showed up in the leasing office wondering if someone was still in there, she was visibly shaken.  Maintenance had entered her dwelling due to a water leak, but failed to leave a note.  Lucky, no one was in there and she wasn't carrying a weapon.

Simple communication between management and residents can put all at ease and avoid potential problems in the future.  Share your concerns with the corporate office and document anything that looks out of place, suspicious or you notice a consistent pattern of strange things happening in your apartment and put your neighbors on alert.

Nicholl McGuire
Author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet?

Useful Posts on this Blog for the Apartment Shopper

Tips for a Stress-Free Apartment Search

6 Signs It Might Be Time to Enlist the Help of Apartment Search Services in Your Area

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

Community Cover-Ups - What Some Don't Want You to Know

12 Apartment "To Do" Things When You're Shopping/Moving

How Soon Are You Looking to Move?

Dreams of Moving Out of a Shared Residence? Be Prepared for What Might Be Ahead

So you just can't stand living with someone any longer?  Hopefully your name isn't on the lease, but if it is, you just might have to remain at the dwelling until the lease is up or live elsewhere.  Whatever you might choose, be sure you give the landlord a sixty-day notice.  Let he or she know you have no plans of remaining in the unit and do not want to renew your lease with the individual.

If you should avoid handling your desire to leave in a professional manner, you run the risk of ruining your credit if you should bail out without notice.  You will also make matters worse for you if you skip out without letting your roommate(s) know and leave a partner or others with your portion of the rent.

You can make your dream of moving a reality if there has been domestic violence.  File a restraining order or protection from abuse with your local police department.  Share a copy of the notice with your landlord and let him or her know you have been advised to leave the residence.  Explain to them you don't want to draw anymore negative attention to the community as a result and if he or she could begin looking for other potential renters.  The landlord might work with you depending on how bad your situation and whether or not you were a good resident.  The landlord might work with your roommate since you no longer want to be on the lease.  Whatever you do, don't return because the next time it won't be so easy to be let out of the lease.

Plan to save money if you really want to move and if you can obtain additional income streams to help with the rent, utilities, and more.  For your new place, you will need a security deposit, first and possibly second month's rent depending on your credit score and other factors.  You might still need a co-signer if your credit is poor, you don't have sufficient credit history or other challenges.  Check your credit before you go apartment shopping and obtain a copy if need be.  Most property companies will perform their own background and credit checks and also private landlords, but it can be helpful to have your information readily available along with a check or money order to hold the place.

Now if you plan on taking items out of the shared residence that you didn't pay for or can't prove that you own, don't be surprised if your roommate(s) might sue you in the future long after you have left.  Other things to consider:

1)  Your friendship might come to a swift end because you are no longer helping.
2)  Someone who you think you know well might be triggered emotionally due to your absence and may stalk you or obsess about you living with him or her again.
3)  Your credit might be negatively impacted by a scorned roommate if he or she has been using your credit cards or has access to your banking information.
4)  People in support of your roommate might treat you rudely depending on what he or she has said to them about you.
5)  If you don't safeguard or obtain everything you care about much before you announce your move, you might not see those things ever again.  So be discreet and remove all important things out beforehand.
6)  You may have to involve law enforcement if a partner/roommate is acting threatening or has become violent with you.
7)  You might find yourself moving sooner rather than later based on how difficult your partner/friend is behaving.

So think about who might help you get a new place if you can't do it on your own and don't even consider your scorned roommate unless you want similar problems in the future.  If you are having a tough time with a partner or others living in the dwelling, whatever you do don't leave your future location you plan to move within view.  Erase internet history and put away rental catalogs.  You don't need your old problems following you to your new residence.

Stay positive during this tough time and continue to online and offline apartment window shop until you are ready to make the move.  Think of the amenities you will enjoy in the future, what you might buy to decorate your new place, and other things that make you happy.  Envision yourself in your new residence without those you no longer want to live with and take a deep sigh knowing that peace won't be long now!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of What Else Can I Do on the Internet?

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.

Hit or Miss with a Partner - Choose Apartment Together, Not Apart

As much as you might think you know your partner well, it can be detrimental to your mental well-being and your relationship if you should choose the wrong apartment.  Oftentimes couples believe they are doing something so nice, so fantastic, so wonderful...for each other that their nice deed ends up being their worst nightmare.  One thing you must do if you plan on renting an apartment is talk things over with your partner before you do anything.  You can lose much money signing a lease, making a deposit, taking hold of the keys, and more if your partner takes one look and says, "No."

I have experienced this repeatedly with men who I thought would consider my thoughts before committing to a lease.  However, they got sucked into the leasing consultants charm and the special deals that they went on and signed.  You can't do much when you don't make enough money to get your own place and what's worse is when you have to move back in with parents because of someone deciding your future dwelling for you without your consent.

So before you rush off and do something you just might regret later, get your partner on board no matter how picky, strange, or indecisive, he or she will thank you later!

Nicholl McGuire is the blog owner and author What Else Can I Do on the Internet?

Too Crowded, Too Loud at Your Residence?

It happens, you end up settling with a residence that is too crowded and loud.  You really wish you could be anywhere but where you are.  But for now, you feel stuck.  Some things you can do to relieve some stress:

1.  Plan activities so you are not always home especially on weekends.

2.  Sound proof a room and invest in some ear phones for radio, TV, computer, etc.

3.  Find instruments that you can play using headphones.

4.  Don't worry over problem neighbors who are too loud, file a complaint with the landlord or police.

5.  Always be on the look out for available apartments in your community or in a desired location.

6.  Save your money for an upcoming move and check your lease on when to give a notice.

7.  Don't invite family and friends over, rather go where they are or arrange to meet somewhere.

You can probably think of other ways to bring peace to your situation.  Try your best to look on the bright side especially when you see yet another homeless man or woman on the street.  Count your blessings!  Do check this site on ways to remedy problems from maintenance issues to pests.

Nicholl McGuire has lived in many different areas over 20 years including Ohio, Pennsylvania and California.  She has also managed and leased units.  Nowadays, she stays in a multi-family dwelling with amenities including a pool she will never use.  Enjoy this blog, feel free to subscribe today!

How to fix a faucet with low water pressure | bathroom sink | kitchen sink

Always check your lease before getting started on any project.  You can be held responsible for any damages to property if you don't know what you are doing.  Call leasing office and make a work order request so that maintenance can take a look at the problem.

Click here for part as seen in video.