When you’re looking for apartments for rent, it’s important to keep in mind that the renting process is very different from the home buying process. As a result, there are a lot of potential pitfalls that tenants can fall into if they’re not careful. In this blog post, we’ll go over the top 10 mistakes tenants make when renting an apartment so that you can avoid them.
Not Checking the Credit Score
The first step in renting an apartment is to check your credit score. This will give you an idea of whether you will be able to qualify for an apartment. If you have a low credit score, you may not be able to qualify for an apartment. Additionally, if you have a high credit score, you may be able to get a lower interest rate on your rent.
Not Saving for a Down Payment
Another mistake that tenants make is not saving for a down payment. A down payment is typically equal to one month’s rent, and it is important to have this saved up before you start looking for an apartment. If you do not have a down payment saved up, you may not be able to qualify for an apartment.
Not Researching the Neighborhood
Before renting an apartment, it is important to research the neighborhood. You will want to make sure that the neighborhood is safe and that there are amenities nearby that you need. Additionally, you will want to make sure that the commute to your job is reasonable.
Not Reading the Lease
Before signing a lease, it is important to read it in its entirety. The lease will outline the rules of the rental agreement and it is important that you understand these rules before signing. If you do not understand something in the lease, be sure to ask questions so that you can be sure that you are comfortable with the agreement before signing.
Not Getting Renters Insurance
Another mistake that tenants make is not getting renters insurance. Renters insurance protects your belongings in case of damage or theft and it is important to have this coverage in place before moving into your new apartment.
Not Measuring Furniture
Before moving furniture into your new apartment, be sure to measure all of the doorways and rooms. This will ensure that your furniture will fit into your new space and that you will not have any issues with returning items that do not fit.
Not Budgeting for Utilities
Utilities can add up quickly, so it is important to budget for them when renting an apartment. Be sure to include utilities in your monthly budget so that you do not end up with a large bill at the end of the month. Additionally, some apartments include utilities in the rent, so be sure to ask about this when viewing apartments.
Not Knowing Your Rights as a Tenant
It is important to know your rights as a tenant before renting an apartment. You should familiarize yourself with state and local laws regarding landlord-tenant relationships so that you know what to expect from your landlord and what your rights are if there are any problems with the rental agreement.
Not Communicating With The Landlord
One of the most common complaints landlords have about tenants is that they don’t communicate with them enough (or at all). It’s important to remember that your landlord is not your enemy —they’re just someone who owns property that you’re renting from them. As such, it’s important to communicate with them whenever there’s an issue with your apartment in order to become an ideal tenant so that it can be resolved quickly and efficiently without turning into a bigger problem down the road.
Not Respecting Neighbors
Living in an apartment complex means having neighbors and it’s important to remember that you need to treat them with respect if you want them to do the same for you.
Not Handling Maintenance Issues Quickly
Maintenance issues are bound to arise when you live in an apartment, but many tenants try to ignore them instead of handling them quickly and efficiently.
Not Cleaning Before Moving Out
When it is time to move out of your apartment, be sure to clean thoroughly before turning in your keys. Most landlords require tenants to leave the apartment in clean condition and if you do not clean, you may forfeit your security deposit. In some cases, landlords may even charge tenants for professional cleaning services if they feel that the tenant did not adequately clean the unit before moving out.
Not Following Up With The Landlord After Moving Out
Once you have moved out of your apartment, be sure to follow up with your landlord regarding any deposits or charges that may be owed. It is important to keep track of these things so that you do not end up owing money after vacating an apartment.
Conclusion
Avoiding these mistakes will help set any tenant up for success when renting an apartment. Just remember, communication is key when working with both potential landlords and actual ones. Keeping these pointers in mind will help ease any stress associated with finding and subsequently living in a rental unit.
