Getting your first apartment is exciting. Searching online, looking at the advertisements and more. But the truth is that there are some common mistakes that people make when it comes to renting their first apartment. Some mistakes are worse to make than others. Below are three of the top mistakes that are made on a regular basis.
Renting It Without Seeing It
The first big mistake that people make is renting a place without seeing it first. Even if there’s lots of pictures that are on the website, there could be a lot of things missing. Or the place could be a lot smaller than the pictures claim it is.
Just imagine getting to your new apartment to find out that the walk-in closet has no room to walk in. Or you find out that the dump is right next door. These are just two examples of things that you would have known had you gone to the apartment and seen it in person rather than just going by photos.
It’s also a good idea to go at night and during the day, so you know what to expect no matter what time it is.
Ignoring Any Kind of Damage
When you get to your new apartment, make sure you’re taking pictures of any kind of damage that is found in the apartment. This is true even if it doesn’t seem like a big deal. You’re renting it, so when there is damage, you are going to be the one who’s held liable. You know that the soda stain existed when you moved in. but with pictures, you will have the necessary evidence.
Not Knowing About Utilities
You have signed your lease and you’ve moved into the apartment that you love, and, better yet, it’s in your budget. But then reality hits you when you find out that things like gas, garbage, water, electric and monthly maintenance aren’t included. A lot of apartments include these utilities. But not all of them do. So you want to know what the truth is for your particular apartment.
Make sure you’re carefully reading any fine print so that you avoid unexpected bills. If you aren’t sure if utilities will be included, ask the property manager or landlord.
These are three big mistakes that you want to avoid making when you are a first-time apartment renter. Yes, you’re excited and you want to move in. But you want to also be careful and make sure that you have done everything that you can to protect yourself. This way you won’t have any nasty surprises.
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