Finding and renting the right apartment for you can be a daunting task. Use this checklist to help you navigate through the process with ease.
- Determine your living and financial needs - Can you afford to live alone? Do you need a roommate? What's the maximum you can afford in rent? How much space do you really need? These are important questions to ask before you begin your apartment search. Decide what amenities you can't live without. Little things like having a washer and dryer in your apartment can narrow your search considerably.
- Research and explore different neighborhoods - Think about the kind of environment you want to live in. A neighborhood with a lot of families? Or young professionals? Explore different neighborhoods. Do a test commute from the area to work. Check your local renters publications or online apartment listings to see the price range of various areas.
- View apartments with a critical eye - Make appointments with prospective landlords whenever possible so you get the most comprehensive tour of the apartment and the surrounding complex. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you get a list of everything that is included in the rent. Is parking extra? Are utilities included? It's also important to pay attention to the security measures in place. Is the community gated? Are walkways well lit? Whenever possible, tour the exact unit you would be renting. Take notes and make sure to include areas in need of repair inside and surrounding the unit.
- Be prepared to rent - It's a good idea to bring all necessary materials when viewing available units. You may find one that you love and if you are prepared, you will be more likely to snag it. This is especially important in highly-competitive markets and busy rental seasons. Be sure to bring your checkbook, proof of employment, previous landlord contact information, written references and even a copy of your current credit report. The more information you can provide upfront, the more likely you will be approved to rent.
- Know your rights and protect them - Make sure to carefully review all of the conditions your lease before you sign. It may include provisions that you find unacceptable—restrictions on guests, pets, design alterations or running a business from your home. The best way to avoid disputes or misunderstandings with your landlord is to get everything in writing. Keep copies of any correspondence and follow up an oral agreement with a letter, setting out your understandings. If you ask your landlord to make repairs, be sure to put your request in writing and keep a copy for yourself. If the landlord agrees orally, send a letter confirming this. Make sure you review your right to privacy and repairs. If you understand your privacy rights (the amount of notice your landlord must provide before entering, etc.), it will be easier to protect them. In addition, most landlords are required to offer their tenants livable premises, including adequate weatherproofing; heat, water, and electricity; and clean, sanitary, and structurally safe premises. If your rental unit is not kept in good repair, you have a number of options, ranging from withholding a portion of the rent, to paying for repairs and deducting the cost from your rent, to calling the building inspector (who may order the landlord to make repairs), to moving out without liability for your future rent.
- Protect yourself and your stuff - Purchase renters' insurance. Your landlord's insurance policy won't cover your losses due to theft or damage. Renters' insurance also covers you if you're sued by someone who claims to have been injured in your home. It's also important to make sure your lease or rental agreement is clear on the use and refund of security deposits, including allowable deductions. When you move in, do a walk-through with the landlord to record existing damage to the premises on a move-in statement or checklist.
For learn more about renting an apartment, check out the Renting section of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Web site.
