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!

Apartment Shopping in the City? What You Need to Know about City Rentals

Shopping for an apartment can be a daunting process, especially in a bustling city. Finding your ideal apartment in the concrete jungle can feel like a needle in a haystack. And the numerous options and factors involved in the process can be overwhelming. However, knowing the common challenges that you might face when searching for an apartment in the city can help you prepare and approach the process with confidence and clarity.

Limited Space: One of the biggest challenges of searching for an apartment in the city is the limited space availability. The high demand for urban living often translates to a tight market for apartments, leading to limited options and smaller living spaces. Don't expect to find your dream spacious apartment with a balcony that overlooks Central Park if you're not willing to spend a fortune on it. However, with the right mindset and expectations, you can find an apartment that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

High Rental Prices: City rents can be shockingly high compared to other places, and it's no secret that the cost of living in cities is higher. Therefore, budgeting for your apartment search is crucial. Determine your affordability range and stick to it. Researching different neighborhoods and their rental prices can help you make better choices. And remember, it's not just about the apartment's rental price; utilities, moving costs, and other living expenses also factor into your budgeting.

Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations: If you're a pet owner, finding a pet-friendly apartment in the city can add an extra layer of stress to the already complicated hunt. Many buildings and landlords have restrictions on pets, such as a certain weight limit or type of pet. Be upfront about your pet when inquiring about potential apartments to save yourself from wasting time on places that are a no-go. Some landlords may also require pet deposits or additional fees, so factor that into your budget too.

Timing and Competition: In cities where the demand for apartments is high, rental properties can go fast. It's important to consider the timing of your apartment search. Certain times of the year, such as summer or the end of the year, can be peak rental seasons, making it harder to find an available apartment. Additionally, you'll be competing with other hopeful renters who are also searching for their ideal home, so be prepared to act quickly when you find an apartment you like.

Transportation and Parking: Living in a city means that owning a car may not be necessary. However, if you do own a car, you'll need to consider parking and transportation options. Depending on where you live, you may have to pay a monthly fee for parking, or there may not be any street parking available. Alternatively, you might have to rely on public transportation, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option, but it also has its downsides. Do your research and consider all your options before choosing the best transportation method for your lifestyle.

Although shopping for an apartment in the city comes with its fair share of challenges, with the right mindset and research, it doesn't have to be overly problematic. Evaluate your budget, needs, and lifestyle preferences and start your search armed with knowledge. Keep your expectations realistic, and be prepared to act fast when you find something that fits the bill. Remember, this is the place you'll be calling home, so take your time, ask questions, and don't settle for less than what works for you. Happy hunting!

Have you ever rented in the city? Feel free to share your thoughts. If you would like to be featured on this blog, feel free to fill out the contact form. 

Check out a great blog for those who are in relationships or dating, here.

How Soon Are You Looking to Move?

There are people right now busily surfing the Internet for a new apartment home or duplex, yet haven’t bothered to look at the calendar to find out exactly when they will give their landlord notice, schedule packing days and secure a moving date, and most of all know exactly when they will be arriving at their new location.

Too often a leasing consultant is sitting down with the potential resident helping he or she and family figure it all out. When the leasing consultant picks up the phone to answer a prospect’s question about apartment availability, he or she is also trained to ask the most important question of all, “How soon are you looking to move?” When the prospect stammers and stutters about it, the consultant will most likely help the person settle on a moving date. This is important because he or she doesn’t want the prospect to miss out on a desired apartment. What usually happens at this point is the prospect will say, “I’ll call you back.” But if the consultant is a good salesperson he or she will not let the prospect off that easy. A few more questions might be asked about one’s preference and a contact name and number is usually written down to be called again nearing the future move-in date.

Some apartment shoppers will ask if the desired apartment can be held. Most communities may hold the unit for about 24 hours without any money placed on the home. However, there is a little disclaimer that goes along with the granted request, “I can’t guarantee you that the apartment is yours, because if someone walks in here ready to put money down on it, I will have to give it to that person.” I have personally seen the disappointment in a variety of faces showing up 72 hours later or longer expecting to see the available unit and rent it the same day. There is nothing to do at this point, but show potential residents other suites which usually aren’t what they wanted. They were sold on what the person told them over the phone.

Apartment shoppers should try their best to know exactly what their needs are in an apartment home and when they would want to move-in. Without such important information, it can be frustrating for both the consultant and the shopper. It can also be annoying for the shopper to find something and not have the money to hold the apartment. This happens frequently as well. The shopper is so excited about finding a desired apartment only to be told, “You will need to put down a deposit to hold the apartment which this money goes toward your security deposit. The remaining security deposit amount and first month’s rent is expected within two weeks prior to move in which at this time you will sign your lease.” Unfortunately, some potential residents can’t afford to come up with the money so quickly. They also aren’t expected to pay twice the amount of a security deposit when it is discovered that their credit is bad.

Apartment shoppers may want to plan to save money prior to calling a consultant to schedule a tour. This way they won’t miss out on possible specials. Sometimes there is a discount given to those who sign a lease within a certain period of time. There are also discounts an apartment shopper may not know about. Some communities offer employer discounts for residents who will be working in the local area.

What to Do When You Have Problems Paying Rent

A situation has occurred in your life that has left you almost penniless. You thought by the time rent was due you would be able to pay it, but unfortunately you don't have the money. What do you do when you can't pay the rent?

The biggest mistake apartment renters make when they are in this position is to not let the apartment manager know as soon as it happens. Waiting until days before the rent is due will only add more misery to your situation. Apartment managers need time to accommodate you and if they don't have the time, it makes it even harder for you to get what you want. The time they need is important depending on what they are willing to negotiate with you. They may want to advertise the apartment, move someone else in who may be on a waiting list or any number of other reasons. There are also company policies for when a tenant gives notice to move out.

Let's say you found out your job will be dismissing employees in March, and you may be one of the people they let go, besides looking for a job, you should be checking your lease. Somewhere in your rental contract should be information on what will happen if you can't pay your rent or if it is late.

Some rental agreements may allow you to be dismissed from the contract if you receive a new job 100 miles away, have to leave due to military duties or if the primary lease holder leaves the apartment. Know what your lease says, before you visit the manager's office. Also, check to see what are the penalties if you are late with rent? Not paying on time might lead to a negative on your credit report, late fees and even an eviction. Find out how much more you will have to pay each day that it is late. How long do you have to pay the balance? Can you arrange a payment plan with management? Be prepared to discuss these questions with the apartment manager as soon as you know you can't pay the rent.

Don't pay rent and late fees with a bounced check. Some landlords will waive (forgive) the late fee if there is a good reason for the rent being late, and if you are a responsible tenant. Paying the rent with a check knowing you have no money in the bank will cause more problems for you. A dishonored or bounced check is charged to the landlord; therefore, he or she will pass on a service charge to you. However, he or she cannot charge you a returned check fee if it is not stated in the lease agreement.

Partial rent payment may be acceptable. You may consider paying part of the rent; yet if you choose to do this, your landlord may accept it and still give you an eviction notice. If the landlord is willing to accept partial rent and provide you with extra time to pay the balance, be sure your agreement is in writing. The written agreement should state the amount of rent you paid, the date due when the rest of the money should be paid, the amount of any late fees, and the landlord's agreement not to evict you if you pay the amount due by that date. Both of you should sign the agreement. This type of agreement is legally binding.

Security deposit can't be used for payment. If you are thinking of using your security deposit to pay the rent, think again. The landlord will not use your security deposit to pay the rent since the deposit is used for damages and repairs to the apartment. Check your lease agreement for details.

Subleasing may be forbidden. Some renters will attempt to move someone else in the suite, not a good idea. Review your lease on subleasing. Most contracts do not allow you to sublet an apartment. Since most companies will do background checks on whose moving in their apartment community, the person you are considering to move in the apartment will have to be checked, their income must be verified and all parties moving in must sign the lease contract just as you did. If management should find out this is what you have done, your relative or friend will be evicted immediately. Your credit rating will be negatively affected and you may have to undergo an appearance in court resulting in more fees to pay. This arrangement is simply not worth it!

Move out notice. If you should decide to move out, whether your lease is for a year or month to month, know you must give proper notice. You will not be released from either type of contract if you are planning to move out without giving proper notice. The notice should be at least 30 days before you move. Some apartment managers may allow you to end your term early if they can rent out your apartment quickly given the nature of your problem. Some landlords may end a tenancy early and give you a 30 or 60 day notice if you have lived in the rental unit less than a year, the landlord has contracted to sell the rental unit, or other reasons you will have to check with your state's department of consumer affairs office.

Once you have made an arrangement with the landlord to move out, you will have to be sure the entire apartment is clean in order to receive your security deposit. However, the landlord may keep it, so be sure you ask whether moving out early will affect receiving your security deposit. If it doesn't and you are still entitled to get it, be sure all nail holes in walls are filled, damages repaired, leaks are reported to maintenance and appliances work, light bulbs are not blown out in fixtures, and the carpet is cleaned professionally with a receipt of proof given to the management. If you are planning to use the deposit for another apartment, consider this, your security deposit will not come to you the same day you move out you will have to wait at least a month before it is returned to you.

In summary, your best option when you know you can't pay the rent is to review the lease, know the tenant's rights in your state, and notify the landlord as soon as it happens and hopefully he or she will be able to accept a payment arrangement or allow you to break your lease without penalty.

By N. McGuire

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!

6 Ugly Things About Apartment Shopping

There are those expected and unexpected things that show up when it comes to apartment shopping.  Sometimes we are blind-sided by challenges and other times we are thinking, "I knew this was going to be the best place for my family and I!" So what might be some ugly things that might turn up while shopping for an apartment?

One.  Relationship Issues

Believe it or not, shopping for an apartment can bring out the ugly in a relationship already riddled with problems, so be sure that you are on the same page BEFORE apartment shopping.  I talk more about this elsewhere in my blog.  You can make your apartment shopping experience unpleasant with all involved when you and the person or people you are living with just aren't getting along.  Besides, the staff will be watching you and members of your party and this will also play a part  in whether management will rent to you.  Just think, they don't want your problems becoming their problems.

Two.  False Advertising

You didn't expect the place to look so bad when you showed up, because in the rental book they made the building and the suites look so nice.  When this sort of thing happens, file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, report your findings online, and notify the advertising company.

Three.  Lack of Funds

What you thought you could afford, turns out you couldn't afford.  If the suite is simply too costly, you can always ask about discounts, specials, etc. and also whether they can hold the apartment until you have enough money to secure it.

Five.  Impolite Managers, Staff and Maintenance

You are cheery and polite when you first meet apartment management, yet you find they aren't so much.  No real time to chat, answer questions, unresponsive to your needs, and often interrupting, apartment staff can be their own worse enemies!  But don't let them get you down, especially if you really like the community and they have shown that they take good care of it.

Six.  Location

"Where is this place?" you might say.  If you didn't track it well on-line, didn't print out instructions, and the GPS is just not working or worse not in the car, you are going to feel frustrated and most likely wont get much accomplished on your apartment shopping day.  Throw in traffic, tardiness and whiny children, and what could have been a positive shopping experience becomes a total bust--even worse you took a personal day from work!  Do plan in advance.

While planning your apartment shopping experience, do your homework, plan your day, and be prepared for anything that might happen.  Also, give the apartment leasing consultants a call when you can't make it, they will appreciate it.

Read more by Nicholl McGuire at Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate and check out her blog on home organizing.

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?

A Big Mistake: Moving Into an Incomplete Apartment

So your anxious about moving in.  You tell the community manager the date you want to move in the apartment and he/she promises you the apartment will be ready.  Unfortunately, you learn the hard way, like so many other renters, that sometimes promises aren't always kept in the apartment industry. 

The manager walks you to your new home only to find out that some things in the unit are simply not done!  You see outlet covers off the wall, carpet stains, wires hanging out of who knows what, and there is still some painting that needs to be done.  The manager is apologizing profusely and you are ready to blow your top because you know in a few days the electricity will be cut off in your old apartment!  Uh oh!

This scenario happens more often than you think in the apartment industry.  On one hand, you have over anxious apartment renters trying to speed up a move-in process on an unfinished suite that may take anywhere from one to three weeks depending on the condition of the unit.  Some are left with serious bug problems, electrical problems, pipe leaks, broken appliances, fixtures, and filthy walls and carpets.  Then on the other hand, you have over anxious leasing consultants and/or managers who quickly take cash and signatures from future residents while failing to stay on top of maintenance and outside contractors' duties.  What an unnecessary headache!

You can avoid the previous scenario if you do just two things:  don't sign or drop off cash unless you have seen the ready suite and have walked the suite with the manager or consultant--don't believe promises, believe what you see instead.  When a renter is anxious, excited or "just can't wait," mistakes will happen and that's when what once was up comes down quickly in the business relationship.  You may want to take a trusted relative or friend with you who isn't as excited about your potential new apartment.  He or she most likely will watch out for things that you may overlook due to your excitement.

If you do accept the keys and have handed money over to management and the suite is still not ready, you can ask that your first month's rent be prorated.  Basically what this means is rather than pay the full months rent, you are deducted the amount from the total due until you are able to officially move-in.  You can also request your first month's rent check back or ask that it isn't deposited until agreed upon maintenance issues are handled prior to move-in.  But whatever you do, don't hand over any more money, sign anymore paperwork, or bring any of your items to the apartment when work still needs to be done.  Otherwise, maintenance can say that they couldn't complete a job, because your belongings were in the way.  You don't want to give them any excuse not to get your apartment ready.  Also, if you have already received the keys to your place, take the time to take photos, video and note any significant wear in the unit.  Once the apartment is officially prepped, be sure to do a walk-through with management or a leasing consultant.

Nicholl McGuire

Resident Retention

In the apartment industry, the words “resident retention” are very important. To define it simply in my experience, it is a process to keep a resident happy in the apartment community, so that he or she will not want to move.

When discussing resident retention goals, behind closed doors, management and staff are brainstorming on ways to keep residents at their apartment communities. It costs much money to the landlord when a resident moves out. He or she is losing profits daily when the apartment remains vacant not to mention the expensive marketing mediums the landlord must pay to get people to come see the unit.

So when a resident gives a notice to move, then another, and another too often and too soon in between, someone should be paying close attention to this and looking for ways to slow these numerous departures.

One way is by surveying the residents. The apartment management may host a meeting, post surveys on doors with a small incentive, or walk door to door asking residents if there is anything they need done in their apartment and/or like to see changed in the apartment community.

Based on feedback, management and staff will accommodate their residents needs; therefore, keeping them around a little longer. Some apartment management will usually pay closer attention to resident needs during lease renewals which I personally feel is too late. Resident retention efforts should be made daily.

At least once, sometimes twice a week, there is always something going on at one apartment community I worked, because I was the one who initiated it. I wanted residents to feel like we cared and many with tears in their eyes, mind you, was most appreciative. I didn’t just keep the previous managers’ punch and cookies routine, but what I did do, was work with local businesses to get the residents the things that they needed. It was a win for everyone. Residents got discounts from local businesses, businesses got exposure, apartment visitors got to partake in some of the festivities as well. Eventually people were telling others, “My apartment community has really changed. There is a lot going on around here.”

I believe as I write that if it wasn’t for the support of management when it came to my ideas regarding resident retention we would have lost a lot of people. The previous landlords were not good and left many residents with a sour taste in their mouths. The resident retention numbers of those leaving the community were bad (in the double digits) when I came on board. There were more people going then staying and someone had to do something.

By Nicholl McGuire

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.

10 Things Residents See Apartment Staff Do But Don’t Report

Have you ever noticed suspicious behaviors of resident managers and maintenance crew and wondered whether or not they should be doing what they do? Although some things are not written in your lease contract, there are rules that staff are suppose to follow internally and you wouldn’t know it unless you knew someone who worked on the inside. When you see any of the staff at your property doing the following things, notify corporate headquarters or the property owners. However, if you rent from a private owner, they may not have any specific protocol, but you should make them aware anyhow. Sometimes the owner is the one at fault and if so there are states' laws that every landlord is to follow. You will need to contact your local government for a handbook that lists those laws and your rights.

One. The on-site laundry facilities, gym equipment, business center, pool, or other areas being used by management for personal reasons.

You may have seen your property manager firing up the grill for a party, maybe swimming in the pool with friends, or washing his or her clothes in the laundry room, unless he or she is an on-site manager that lives at the apartment complex, they shouldn’t be doing it. You are paying for those amenities and they are meant to be enjoyed by the residents not the staff. It is an inconvenience to the residents living onsite that need to wash their clothes or have a celebration in the party room and the staff are using them. Do everyone a favor in your building and report them to corporate headquarters when you see them doing it.

Two. Managers and maintenance entering your apartment without residents knowing about it.

You are away at work not suspecting that anyone would be looking around in your apartment. Then one day you come home to discover that something in your apartment is out of place. You call the main office and they tell you that one of the maintenance men were checking for leaking faucets that day. Proper protocol should have been to leave a note by the one who had entered your apartment. Even better, some companies will notify you with a letter at least a week in advance letting you know that someone will be entering your apartment for routine maintenance. However, for emergencies there is no time to let you know in advance, but staff is still expected to leave a note letting you know when they came into your apartment and what they did while there.

Three. Management and maintenance staff inspecting residents’ trash.

Sometimes residents will leave trash in places they shouldn’t have, if you are one of those residents stop it. But if you do, maintenance is not allowed to go through your trash to find out who left it, remove plastic containers, or look for some hidden treasure. There are always those cases where trash will tip over, break, or come open and will need to be cleaned up. However, you are responsible for properly disposing of trash. Some managers will issue warnings then later serve evictions to residents for property damage.

Four. Management or staff removing packages or mail placed by the mail carrier from a resident’s mailbox or front of their door.

This one is tricky. Let’s say you have a good relationship with management and he or she was concerned about your package sitting out in front of your door for days at a time, they may remove it and take it to their office. You may have been away for awhile and your mailbox is full, so management may remove your mail at your request. However, many will not touch your mail or packages no matter how full your mailbox gets or how long a package stays outside of your door. The reason for this is that they do not want to be held responsible if your mail or package is damaged, stolen, or lost. When you are out of town it is better to designate a loved one, friend or neighbor to clean out your mailbox for you if it should overflow. The mail carrier may give the overflow of mail to management, but not always. He or she may leave a note indicating that you will have to pick up your mail at the post office.

Five. Staff showing up announced at a resident’s apartment for personal reasons or entering it unannounced such as helping themselves to some food or watching television.

When you moved into your new apartment, the last thing you expected was to be harassed by management or maintenance about going out on a date, attending an event, joining a business opportunity, visiting a church or whatever other reason they felt it was necessary to knock on your door almost daily. You also didn’t expect that someone from the staff would abuse their privileges of entering the apartment without you being at home. In situations like this, you will want to notify the corporate office and if they persist, contact your local law enforcement.

Six. Management failing to acknowledge a resident’s requests within a 24-48 hour period.

It should never take any longer than three days for anyone to get back to you about a work order request. Efficient staff will respond either that same day depending on how early you called or by the following day. Residents should never have to wait weeks at a time for a request to be granted. If you find that no matter what you ask for management just doesn’t seem to be on top of your requests, you will have to notify their boss or better yet, check your local business directory for an organization that handles tenant and landlord disputes.

Seven. Managers threatening or harassing a resident about rent.

Most states will give you a thirty day notice before they evict you. If you find that you notified management a week in advance about paying rent late and they are calling you a week later about the rent, you will want to remind them that you are aware of your rights and that you will have the rent as soon as you can. The reason why they want you to have it on the day you may have promised is because they know they have a deadline to meet when it comes to filing court papers against you. You will want to re-read your lease to find it if there are any points you may have missed regarding the payment of rent. Also, find out what your state’s laws are in regard to late rent payments.

Eight. Managers failing to make residents aware of rent increases, lease renewals, changes in management and other things related to their lease contract.

You should not be suddenly told that the property is being bought, your rent will be increased next month, and other similar things without receiving a formal notice from management. Anything that may affect your stay should always be made in writing. Never assume anything without contacting management for yourself or requesting to speak with someone at corporate headquarters. Managers are supposed to give you this information if you request it.

Nine. Managers allowing outside contractors to come into resident’s homes while they are away without staying with them or letting them know they have been there.

You may have a problem with your phone line, need cable turned on, or some other issue, management is never suppose to give outside contractors your apartment key for them to let themselves into your home. Rather, someone from the staff should be escorting the contractor through the property and unlocking the door for him or her. Most staff will leave your apartment door open while they are in your home as a safety precaution and so that you are not startled if you should come home early. They are also expected to leave a note or call you to let you know that they were in your apartment.

Ten. Managers copying master keys and leaving them with a resident’s family or neighbors.

If you as a tenant choose to leave a copy with your family or neighbor that is your business, but managers should never leave copies of your keys with anyone without your written request to do so. If there is some kind of lock out program enforced, then there may be a reason why someone onsite needs to be available to let people into their apartments. Otherwise, if there is no such program and you are not made aware that someone other than staff has a copy of your apartment key, then they are violating your rights. Once again, notify corporate headquarters, the property owners, or your local police about the matter.

When you live in an apartment complex, know what is going on with management and your neighbors. Read the company newsletters, if they have any, and know about any upcoming changes that may be happening in management and on the property. Also, be friendly with at least one of your neighbors by waving, helping them carry something, knocking on their door if mail was mistakenly placed in your box or you noticed something strange. Keep your ears open to rumors and call management to confirm the truth. When you make attempts such as these to get to know the people in your community, they may be helpful to you in the future by watching your property, assisting you when you need help, and keeping you informed of the latest happenings.

By Nicholl McGuire

When the Landlord Has to Enter Your Apartment

Those days will come where one's apartment dwelling will be visited by management. State laws require that a landlord give notice before entering one's unit. But unfortunately I have heard my share of stories of apartment management, maintenance and others not always giving at least a 24 hour notice. Most often when this happens it is due to an emergency.

Emergencies may occur in a resident's apartment such as: a water leak, electrical problem, rodent or insect nuisance, or some other problem. When this happens, usually a resident will need to clear the problem area. He or she should also pack up valuables.

There are usually sections within the lease contract that outline when staff may enter a unit including when a resident gives notice to move, so pay close attention to your lease during signing and periodically review it. Some residents are taken by surprise when their unit is already being marketed to the public before boxes are packed and they are already moved out. The inconvenience of having a stranger walk through your apartment can be irritating. One way around this is to compromise on when apartment staff can come view the apartment or simply refuse when staff show up.

I have been on both sides of the fence, the one showing the apartment and the one living there; therefore, I have mixed emotions, but I usually make the right decision when it comes to getting things done in the apartment unit. I tend to be more empathetic for staff then I would have ever been had not worked as a leasing consultant and apartment manager.

One of the biggest issues that maintenance has with residents is when they either don't report a problem or wait until it is so bad that they complain. Whenever there is a leaky faucet, watermarkings on a ceiling, a crackling sound behind a wall, lightbulbs having to be changed often, a bad odor, or frequent visits from bugs, there is a problem. Don't wait simply because you don't want to be inconvenienced, make a phone call, then another until something gets done.

Nicholl McGuire

Websites to Help with Property Related Concerns

Renters' Rights

Renters' Rights & Tenants' Rights - Nolo.com

Rental Help, Resources

Renters Rights


Apartment Shopping

Apartment Ratings - Official Site

Apartment Reviews | Apartment Ratings | Apartments For Rent

Apartment Guide

Yelp

Apartments.com: Apartments and Homes for Rent

All Property Management


Apartment Maintenance

Can My Apartment Custodian Fix That?

3 Apartment Decorating Challenges (And How to Fix Them ...

How to Fix Common Damage Issues Before Moving Out ...

Skip the landlord: 5 quick apartment fixes you can do ...

The Fix For Slow Wifi - Apartment Therapy

A Tenant's Rights to Landlord Repairs - FindLaw

When Your Application is Delayed - Leasing Consultants Taking Too Long to Approve

You have applied for an apartment and it is simply taking too long to find out whether you are approved or when the apartment will be ready, and what date is a good time to move in.  There are a number of factors as to why some approvals happen quite rapidly while others not so much.

Sometimes applicants will apply online. If there is no mention that there is an application pending or the system doesn't alert the staff, then the application is just sitting in the system there until a team member checks it out.  A leasing consultant may be out of the office and the community manager might be too involved with other things to review the application, so it remains in the queue until you call to follow up or leasing staff return back to work.

If you have ever visited a leasing office, you know how busy it can be, phones are ringing, visitors are waiting to be toured, residents are being helped, vendors are awaiting keys, and more.  Whether the application was filled out online or is a paper application that was dropped off, most likely it may have already been reviewed, but someone has yet to call the applicant.  Once again, follow up to find out where you are in the approval process.

Mistakes happen and there are times when a paper document is damaged, lost, or never was received via fax or email.  In this case, unless someone calls you for an additional request, you will not know what occurred.  This type of situation is typically not discussed in detail.  So the best question to ask when there is a delay, "Do you need anything more from me?"  This question puts a leasing consultant at ease who may already be stressed about misplacing or ruining your document.  

Let's say the application was received, reviewed, you followed up, and there is an additional delay.  Sometimes there is more information that is requested by upper management to complete the approval.  If credit history is unsatisfactory there may be a higher security deposit requested or a denial pending.  The delay might occur also because of many addresses that an applicant has lived at, a criminal history that is still being researched, and other factors that need to meet requirements in order to be approved.

As much as one would like to rush the approval process, these things do take time.  Now when it comes to the approval being granted and the applicant is notified, another hang up might be the apartment is not ready.  When this happens, an applicant is typically told about it so that he or she can plan accordingly.  However, there are those leasing agents, for whatever reason, who aren't completely upfront about the condition of the apartment.  A sudden water leak, an electrical issue, a delay in new appliances arriving for the suite, an insect issue, or something else could now set back the move-in.  A future resident will need to follow up to find out a specific timeframe as to when the apartment might be ready.  Call once a week if necessary so that you and the leasing consultant are in communication.  The leasing consultant will then speak to the manager about your calls and will most likely follow up with the maintenance team.

The time when an applicant or future resident should be concerned about whether a team is able to meet the move-in date requested is when there are many excuses as to why things aren't getting done and there is no other apartment suggested to move in. Any number of issues might be happening internally.  For instance, maintenance is unable to solve the problem in the unit and will need an outside contractor to assist.  There might be a scheduling issue to get a contractor out to see about the apartment.  The unit may have been double-leased and now there is no other apartment available by your move-in date or meet your preferences.  Money might be a factor and the management has no plans to upgrade the apartment as originally promised.  Common courtesy is to communicate what might be the problem and to offer another apartment.  If this doesn't occur, you may want to take your business elsewhere.  The failure to communicate is one of the most important signs that there just might be more of the same in the future.

Nicholl McGuire is the owner of this blog and contributor.

Property Management Marketing Schemes

Sometimes there are those people in the property management industry that are less than honest. They will do just about anything to get people into a rental unit including lie.

The following are some things you may want to pay close attention to when speaking to a leasing consultant over the phone as well as once you arrive to see the unit.

Description.

What you hear isn't always what you see when speaking to property representatives. So with that said, ignore the adjectives about the property and get straight to the matters that concern you. A consultant may say, "We have spacious bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, a beautiful community room, and a wonderful staff." But leave out, the peeling paint on the front and sides of the building and how the children are often seen running rampant around the property without their parents.

Apartment descriptions sound real nice over the phone, but aren't you concerned about the exact size, how many bedrooms and bathrooms and whether or not you have a garage for your car? Don't let the consultant dominate the conversation with fluff (even though some are trained that way); rather, state what you need and how soon.

Also, don't forget to drive to the property after hours and on weekends when you want to get a good look at the people who live there and the upkeep. Property managers are forbidden by law to tell you the ethnicity of residents, whether they have a lot of children staying there, and other things related to the people who live on the property. If you are concerned about criminal activity on the site, do the following: check with local police, visit the local newspaper website and review their local crime reports. Finally, search for community forums that talk about the property online.

Availability.

Let's say you are told a unit is available upstairs, but once you arrive you find out there is no apartment available upstairs. The remaining units are all downstairs. Now one of two things may have happened, someone in the office didn't update their notes on available units or someone rented the unit before you could make up your mind to drive over and see it. These are honest issues that come up--nothing deceptive about these. However, there are those property managers who already know a certain unit is not available, but due to pressure placed upon them from their corporate office to rent more apartment units, they may not be totally upfront about what is available. Therefore, when you arrive you may be told something like, "Well the one you wanted is no longer available. But, we do have another unit like it coming available next month. How about we take a look at one downstairs so you can see the floor plan? It is identical to the one upstairs." This tactic does two things: forces you to come to the property with your contact information (so the manager can follow up.) The other is to open your mind up to taking another unit--even though it isn't the one you originally wanted.

Location.

Anyone who is renting an apartment is concerned about how near or far the apartment community is to everything. When you call seeking information about the surroundings, the property manager is going to focus on the glass half full every time you ask a question. Therefore, he or she is going to talk about how easy it is to get on the freeway from the apartment complex, but he or she will leave out how most major shopping malls are not within walking distance. In fact, you will need transportation in order to visit. The manager may not say anything about the absence of a bus-line, the driving distance of local schools or other things that may keep you from visiting the property. Sometimes what isn't said is just as deceptive as what is said.

Price.

What you are told over the phone may be different upon your arrival especially if certain apartments have been recently discounted. For example, some managers will discount certain units because they don't have as many windows as others or maybe they are near something in the apartment building that may be considered a nuisance like elevator doors or a storage room for residents. However, sometimes a price that should be discounted isn't. There also may be one price said over the phone to get you to come visit the apartment and a totally different one once you arrive. Keep in mind that the lower price units are usually efficiencies, one bedrooms or units that lack certain features. That "sounds too good to be true" price quote is just that--too good.

There you have it, some tips to keep in mind the next time you call a company seeking an apartment. To your success in finding a good apartment!

10 Things to Do Before Moving Out of Apartment, Town Home

The time has come for you to start planning your move from an old apartment or town home to a new one, but you haven't bothered to notify a property owner or landlord of your move just yet. There are some things you may want to consider before moving especially if you want to maintain a good relationship with the landlord or property owner.

One. Report maintenance issues such as leaks, electrical problems and non-working equipment.

When you contact the property owner about ongoing problems in the apartment, he or she will not be able to assume you caused damage to the unit. For instance, a soft spot on a shelf or ceiling that eventually turns into a hole may be caused by a water leak. Also, mold issues may arise causing more damage.

Two. List issues that were not addressed by landlord prior to move.

You may have told the landlord about a number of problems and he or she may have promised to handle them, but never did. Note the date and/or time you contacted him or her and what was said.

Three. Notify landlord at least thirty-days in advance that you will be moving.

The more days in advance of a move you tell the landlord, the better. You won't have to worry over unnecessary fees for not letting her or him know in advance. You also have a right to decline your apartment be shown until you move out, so if there is nothing in the lease that you signed requiring you to show the apartment, don't worry about it. However, do remind the landlord that while you are living there, you don't want your apartment to be shown.

Four. Get your new mailing address and cancel delivery of mail and newspaper.

Sometimes people fail to forward their mail creating problems for residents who may be living in the suite after them. Avoid chasing the mail man and the newspaper boy, change your mailing address with the post office and with the companies you do business at least a week prior to your move out date.

Five. Arrange to transfer all utilities back to property owner prior to move.

You don't want to have utilities turn off too soon prior to moving out, but not too late either which may also cause problems for the owner or preceding resident.

Six. Schedule a move-out inspection before moving, so that the property owner can communicate concerns and you can fix anything you broke.

This is very important especially if you know you damaged something and might need to get an estimate. Don't rely on the property manager to be fair about damages to the unit. Have him or her note the problems while you get someone to fix them before you leave; otherwise, you will get less of your security deposit than you expect.

Seven. Clean unit.

Every individual has their own version of what they consider is clean. The best way to determine what to leave clean in the apartment is to look around. Do you see crumbs on the floor, counter tops, and refrigerator, grease in and on the stove, stains on the toilet, carpet, and walls? If so, the apartment is not considered clean. However, if you do clean the apartment, a landlord may still take out of your security deposit carpet cleaning charges and other cleaning fees if you don't produce paperwork that shows that the unit has been professionally cleaned. Most often, do-it-yourself cleaning is not clean enough.

Eight. Take pictures of rooms of apartment or town home.

After you have made repairs and cleaned the unit, you will take pictures of every visible flaw that you may think might be an issue. If it was there before you arrived, take a picture. If you caused the visible defect, take a picture. If you think that it might be a problem for the next resident, take a picture.

Nine. Schedule a final move out walk-through.

When the time comes to take the property owner or a member of the leasing staff on a tour of your clean suite, you will want to point out the problems that were not addressed by management and the cosmetic defects so as not to be charged. You will also want to ask about any charges you may incur. Some property management companies have a price list of how much damages cost.

Ten. Ask when to expect remainder of security deposit.

Although you may already know when to expect your refund, ask anyway. This way you have confirmation from the owner or staff person. Note who told you when you will get your security deposit and also if the company has a corporate office do get the phone number. Then when the time comes to expect your security deposit to arrive in the mail and it doesn't, you can take up your complaint with the right people.

These ten points will help you maintain a good reputation with your old landlord in the event you may need him or her in the future.

N. McGuire

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.

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.

10 Signs a Landlord is Having Money Problems

If you would have known in advance about all the ongoing problems at your apartment complex, you would have never moved there! Why is your landlord ignoring you? Why does it seem that every time you tell him or her about a problem, nothing gets done? Chances are the landlord is having money problems.

One. Makes promises to fix things but doesn't.

You have written a letter repeatedly, left voice mails, and even met with the landlord or staff in person, and still nothing ever gets done! So what could be the problem or problems? The landlord could have other properties that are in worse condition then yours. He or she could be tending to those first. Other possible scenarios include: owes back taxes, dealing with ongoing legal proceedings, misappropriating funds, or any other number of issues and considers your requests not priorities.

Two. Tells you about upgrades and brags about maintaining property but you rarely see maintenance on the grounds.

The property owner made promises to upgrade your suite and add new amenities to the units, but nothing has been done yet. Why? Once again, the landlord realizes there is a problem with funding so he or she is putting off the extras.

Three. Claims repeatedly he or she has never received an email, telephone call, or written letter.

You told the landlord about some problems you have been having in your apartment, yet she still claims not to have received this letter, that receipt, or knows nothing about a service call. Don't play this game! Remind the landlord that you are disappointed in the lack of service you are receiving. One good way to get prompt attention fast is to state in writing that you have contacted an attorney and that you will be putting your next rent payment in an escrow fund until your needs are addressed then list again what it is that you need. Send the letter certified so that you have record that the letter was received.

Four. Believes he or she is doing you a favor by not making certain improvements.

So when you first arrive on the property the landlord tells you what he or she will be doing to make residents feel more at ease when walking the grounds and more comfortable in their apartment. Upon moving in you notice the script has changed, “I think we won't be getting that new pool, because we don't want an increase of accidents...I think if we create a new community room it might be a problem...Just think if we don't upgrade your kitchen cabinets, you won't have to worry over maintenance coming in and out of your apartment or the dust.”

Five. Charges you a late fee even when your rent wasn't late.

There is an error that happens once in awhile, but repeated errors and you have to wonder is someone borrowing from Peter to pay Paul.

Six. Cut off utilities.

Water, gas and trash is included in the rent, right? So why then is the water and gas department leaving notices to shut off the buildings utilities?

Seven. No visit from pest control or grounds keepers despite your repeated requests.

You use to see an employee from pest control spraying the grounds, a landscaper mowing the grass and others tending to the grounds. You have left messages about an increase of bugs and overrun grass areas, but no one seems to care. On the staff cares as long as the landlord is paying them to care. You might have to do a good deed, maintain your area as best you can and/or contain the health department.

Eight. No more community activities and freebies.

There was the pizza guy who offered free pizzas, then there was the free refreshments at the management and resident meetings and daily cups of coffee offered to residents, but these days there isn't anything going on out of the leasing office. Unless you create your own resident events, don't rely on the apartment staff anymore, funding most likely got cut.

Nine. Scheduled building improvements and paint jobs are canceled indefinitely.

When was the last time the building was painted? As much as the apartment staff would like to see their workplace improve and your apartment get painted, it won't happen if there are budget cuts.

Ten. New fees are instituted and residents are notified about sharp hikes in rent.

When you first moved you may have received a great deal, but now a year later, you are like, “What the...?” Well it happens, things increase in cost and the landlord has no choice but to past some of those expenses off on the residents.

Anyone who is paying apartment rent expects quality service and when this is not happening there will be problems. As an unsatisfied resident, you will want to record your findings, meet with manager and/or apartment staff, and consult legal counsel if necessary.

N. McGuire