Questions To Consider When Apartment Hunting

Whether you are looking to upgrade, need more space, are moving to a new town or state, or are leaving home, when you are moving to a new apartment, you may become overwhelmed. There are a number of online and printed apartment listings to go through. It is important that you go through the listings and pay attention to all the details. Once you have looked them all over, pick out 4 or 5 to go and see. Before you go, have a list of questions to ask the rental agent or property owner so you understand everything completely. Here are the important things you will need to be sure are clarified.

Utilities

You need to know which utilities  you will be responsible for paying. You also need to know if you need to change the utilities into your name or if the landlord will just bill you for them when the bill comes, giving you the actual bill of course. Make sure you consider, electric, water, sewer, gas/oil, and internet services.

Occupancy

Some leases are very strict in regards to how many people live in the apartment. They may also detail how long visitors can stay. You do not want to get an extra fee because you sister from college needs to spend the summer with you. You should also make sure you understand any rules about subleasing. If you may end up going on an extended trip or have to move for work purposes, you may want to sublease your place to keep from having to pay rent on two places. 

Damage

Some leases will state that you are responsible for taking care of small problems. You need to be clear on what you will have to pay for if something breaks in the unit. Many leases will make you pay for a problem that was obviously your fault. Make sure to document any damage before you move in. Take pictures that have a date stamp on them so you cannot be charged for something you had nothing to do with.

Take your time when going through apartment listings. Visit a couple of places just to see how the listings can be worded. Make sure you know the difference between luxury and executive, and understand what a gourmet kitchen is.

Apartment hunting can be fun and exciting. Don't take the first place you see without looking at others first and make sure you understand the full cost of living there before signing a lease. Stay within your budget and your experience should prove to be enjoyable when you choose a place because you like it and not because it is available. For more information about apartment listings, contract a local realtor.