6 Important Questions to Ask When Looking at Apartments
Moving to a new apartment is both exciting and nerve-wracking. It’s a fresh start but it also comes with some anxiety and worry that something might go wrong. What if your neighbors are noisy? Or the landlord is unresponsive? What if you can’t afford the security deposit? Or the kitchen cabinets might have an insect infestation?
The good news is you can avoid these apartment nightmare scenarios by asking the right questions. After all, as a prospective tenant, it’s your right to ask questions about the location, the lease terms, and the neighbors.
Here are some important questions to ask when looking at apartments. The answers will help you make an informed decision before you sign a lease.
What Is the Total Cost of Rent and Other Fees?
The rental price is the first question most apartment hunters ask and for a good reason. It’s crucial to know if the place fits your budget. Ask how much the unit costs per month and the mode of payment. Is it a fixed price or will it go up after a year?
The rent is just a part of the financial commitment though. You should also ask about the security deposit, application fees, and utilities. Are they included in the rent or do you have to make a separate payment? There might be other fees as well like charges for parking, pets, and trash removal. Make sure you get all the details so you can review if everything is within your budget.
What Are the Lease Terms?
Before even going on an apartment tour, be sure you already know about the lease terms or if they allow flexible terms. Some crucial points to clarify would be the lease length and renewal policies. Are you going to sign a 6-month or one-year lease? Will the landlord increase the rent if you renew the contract?
It’s also important to know their termination policies should you decide to move out before the lease ends. Are there penalties for doing so? Can you sublet the place if needed? The answers can help you plan your living arrangement.
Can I Make Changes to the Unit?
Sometimes you find a perfect apartment– except you hate the orange walls. If you like personalizing your space to make it your own, check with the landlord what unit modifications are allowed.
Some landlords allow minor changes like changing the paint color or drilling on walls, but others might have strict policies. Knowing what you can do will help you decide if you can make a happy home out of your unit.
Who Handles Trash Disposal and Maintenance?
Trash disposal might seem like a small detail but it is actually one of the top things tenants and landlords argue about. It’s best if you know who’s responsible for trash collection before signing a lease. Does the building have a designated system, or is it handled through municipal services? Some complexes have specific rules about how and when you can dispose of trash, so it’s best to clarify.
Maintenance is another key factor. What happens if a pipe bursts or the heater stops working? Ask how maintenance requests are handled and how quickly issues are typically resolved. For example, our Waukesha apartments offer an online request system, while other complexes may require phone calls or in-person visits. Also, check if minor repairs are the tenant’s responsibility or covered by the landlord.
What Kind of Security Does the Apartment Have?
Feeling safe in your new home is a must so be sure to learn about the building’s security. Is it a gated entry or a key fob access? Are there security cameras and where are they located?
Check if the locks are secure and if there’s enough. You should also clarify if the owner changed the locks after the previous tenant left. It’s the usual policy but the landlord might have forgotten. Ask if you can install extra locks or more security features.
For due diligence, speak with people in your neighborhood and confirm the safety of the place. What’s the crime rate in the area? Try visiting the neighborhood several times and at different hours of the day. It will help you get a better sense of the area.
What Amenities Are Available?
The right amenities can make your life more convenient and enjoyable, so go ahead and find out what amenities are available to tenants. Does the building have a gym? Are there common areas, like a lounge, where tenants can socialize?
If laundry facilities are a deal breaker for you, then look for a place like Evergreen Place. We have on-site laundry facilities as well as garage options and off-street parking.
These rental questions can help you decide if the apartment suits your needs, expectations, and lifestyle.
Your Dream Apartment Awaits You
At JJGF Properties, we go beyond providing a place to live. We offer a comfortable, bright, and convenient haven. Our apartments have fresh interiors and modern amenities. For added security, the building has a locked entrance and indoor mailboxes. We also have abundant green space and peaceful surroundings. Contact us or call 262-719-4700 to schedule a tour today.