How to Rent an Apartmentpage 432

Finding and Evaluating• Prioritize your needs – the more you get

the more you pay…..

• Look for– Convenience– Neighborhood– Environment– Size and Condition– Facilities– Pets?

Where to Look

• Ask family and friends

• Newspapers

• Internet

• Real Estate Agencies

• Apartment Managers

• (drive around looking)

Questions to Ask

• What’s the rent? No more that 1/3 your monthly take home pay.

• What’s included – heat, electricity, gas, water?• How long is the lease?• Can I rent month to month?• What facilities are provided?• What rules and restrictions are there?• Can I have pets, is there a cost?• Security/Safety

The Lease

• Details your rights and responsibilities as a tenant as well as those of your landlord.– Terms include

• Length of time• Rent amount and due date• Security deposit• Responsibility of utilities• Facility use• Restrictions• Rules regarding conduct• Responsibility of repairs• Conditions in which landlord can enter your apartment• Notice required for moving

Moving

• Moving expenses can add up

• Think of– Packing– Trucks– Utilities– Mail– Avoid moving on holidays