When looking for an apartment there are several factors to consider. It’s important to find out the total costs involved, how flexible the landlords are and how secure you’ll be in your home. By making sure you ask the right questions you’ll ensure you find an apartment that perfectly meets your needs.
Costs
1. How much will I pay in up-front costs when I sign the lease?
The first thing to look for when apartment hunting is the total cost of moving
in. It’s no good looking into a place that’s out of your budget. It’s important
to not just consider the monthly payments but look out for additional costs.
If you’re bringing a pet with your family, you will need to pay a security
deposit ranging from $200-$400. Also the bond amount will vary depending on the
property and management.
2. Are utilities included? If so, which
ones?
Depending on the landlord and management you may have some utilities included in
the rent. This can work out a lot cheaper for tenants depending on their
lifestyle. Utilities being included in the rent is also convenient. Instead of
having several bills with fluctuating amounts due you only have to worry about
one steady payment.
Flexibility
3. What would it take to break the lease?
Life can be quite unpredictable. It’s worthwhile to be prepared. Ask what costs
would incur and what situations would break the tenancy. Make sure the terms of
tenancy fit into any potential pitfalls you may see in the future.
4. What are the policies about guests?
Some landlords don’t permit guests to stay with you for longer than two weeks.
Other landlords and agencies put limits on how many times you can have guests
over in a month. For people with friends and family that live out of town this
can be quite the inconvenience, find out the policy for the apartment upfront. Heritage Ridge has fully furnished apartments for rent
short term. Ask at the office for a
tour.
5. Am I allowed to decorate the apartment
without penalty?
This of course is a personal preference however for families are people with an
interest in decor it can be important. Some owners are pretty flexible and as
long as there aren’t holes drilled into the wall are fine with tenants changing
it up. Others may not even let you change the curtains!
Security
6. What happens when there's a maintenance
problem in the apartment?
You need to know who is responsible for maintenance before signing the lease.
Check to see if the agency or landlord offer emergency maintenance. Unless you
are a super handy electrician and plumber and also want to have to come running
every time something breaks you’ll want to make sure you have emergency
maintenance available.
7. How Secure Is the Property?
It’s important you know that the property is up to your standards in term of
security before signing the lease. You wouldn’t want to feel unsecure in your own
home! If you’re not happy with the current security, ask if a lock or security
system could be put in before you move in. You’ll sleep a lot better for it!
A good example of an apartment community that encompasses the above concerns is
Heritage Ridge Apartments. They offer emergency maintenance, a swimming pool and
playground, and pets. Where
ever you live or are looking for apartments though, remember when looking for
your dream home always ask questions and read the fine print before signing
your lease.