Renting an apartment is a big step in life, whether you’re searching for one in the summer months or winter months. The apartment hunting process can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. That is because there are so many apartment complexes to choose from when it comes to renting a new apartment. This is why it’s wise to do your research before committing to a lease. Following the right guidelines can help you find the perfect place to call home.
From figuring out the monthly expenses and security deposit required to carrying out a detailed apartment inspection, there are many factors to consider when renting an apartment. With the right information, you can find the perfect apartment that fits your lifestyle and budget.
So, what exactly should you look for when renting an apartment other than the apartment walkthrough and a virtual apartment tour?
Let’s explore more about it.
What to Look for When Renting an Apartment
A new apartment might look beautiful at the first glance, but what if you find out later on about that broken washer after making the move? An honest property manager would always advise you to have a detailed analysis of each and every thing related to the apartment, even before signing the lease. By doing so, you can avoid or reduce any potential conflicts with your landlord regarding the state of the property and ensure that your living environment is both safe and enjoyable.
Even if you’ve planned to deep-clean your apartment once you move into the new place, here’s what you should look for before renting an apartment:
The Landlord
The landlord plays a crucial role in determining your rental experience. A landlord with unethical behavior or a lack of boundaries can lead to an unpleasant experience, even if you’ve found a perfect apartment. That is especially true if you prefer having limited interaction with the landlord. To avoid this, it’s wise to meet your potential landlord in-person before submitting the rental application.
If you’re moving into an apartment where roommates already reside, you can inquire about their overall experience with the landlord. This will give you a fair idea if you should agree to the lease terms offered by the property manager.
The Rent Prices
The most critical factor to consider is affordability. Carefully assess your budget before evaluating any apartments in Farmington Hills, MI. You can research the rent prices in the neighborhood to have a better understanding of the rent payments you’ll be making after moving into the new apartment.
If you prefer to choose the best location in the area, but your monthly income doesn’t allow you to budget accordingly, you should either save money or find ways to reduce expenses. Be wary of apartments with a rent significantly lower than the market rate as this could indicate a potential red flag. Instead, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the market conditions before conducting an apartment search and visiting apartment complexes.
Make a Detailed Apartment Inspection Checklist
Before submitting a rental application, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the property to ensure its cleanliness, safety, and overall suitability. An apartment inspection during the apartment hunting process can help prevent or reduce conflicts with your landlord regarding the state of the property and ensure a safer and more enjoyable living environment for you.
That said, make sure that your apartment inspection checklist should include the following:
Electrical Outlets
While each room requires its own individual inspection, there are certain elements that should be evaluated throughout the entire apartment. Start inspecting these items as they’ll serve as reminders to check them while moving from one room to another.
Ensure that the electrical outlets and light fixtures are functional (you can do this by plugging in a small device, such as a nightlight or a phone charger) into each of the power outlets. Also, turn on all of the light fixtures and check their functionality. You can check for any unusual odors, burn marks, or cracks in the covers. If something doesn’t seem to be working properly, inform the property managers immediately so they can carry out the required maintenance before your move-in date.
Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
Verify that smoke detectors are present near each bedroom, no matter if it’s a 1-bedroom apartment for rent in Farmington Hills, MI or a 3-bedroom apartment for rent in Farmington Hills, MI the front door, and the kitchen. You should also test them to confirm that they are functioning properly.
Keep the functionality of batteries in mind as well. You can inquire when the property manager replaced the batteries. You should replace batteries and the entire smoke detector every 10 years.
This isn’t sufficient to ensure apartment safety, though. Determine if fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors are also present in the apartment. If yes, ask them if they’re operational.
Inspect the Windows and Doors
When inspecting windows and doors in a potential apartment, it’s crucial to consider their quality and condition, as they play a significant role in the apartment’s energy efficiency, security, and comfort.
- Energy-efficiency. Eco line Windows says that based on their experience and overall government statistics, windows can account for 25-30% of residential energy loss. Therefore, when inspecting an aspartame, make sure it has at least double-glazed energy-efficient windows installed. Such models can significantly reduce annual heating and cooling costs.
- Security. The integrity of windows and doors is paramount for security. Statistics show that about 30% of burglars enter a home through an unlocked door or window. Ensure all windows and doors close properly and have secure, functioning locks. If the apartment you’re touring doesn’t have a security system yet, ask the landlord if you can install one on your own. If they agree, add it to the lease terms as well.
- Quiet environment. Good-quality windows can reduce external noise, a vital factor for comfort, especially in urban areas. Apartments with well-insulated windows can dramatically decrease noise pollution, making your living space more peaceful and enjoyable.
Bathroom Issues
Why regret later when you can pinpoint the issues with pipes and water pressure before even moving to your new home? From faucets to toilets, it is wise to check the functionality of each and every bathroom appliance.
Turn on all taps and assess the water pressure. Note the time it takes for hot water to heat up and for cold water to cool down. Ensure that there are no leaks from the taps or the underlying plumbing as even minor drips can significantly increase your water bill over time. You can also inspect the sink for cracks in both the basin and pipes. It may be wise to consider apartments that include water in the rent as well.
Laundry Room
If the laundry room is locked, ask the property manager to open it for you to inspect. Any problems in this area can cause significant issues with the apartment. So, it makes sense to examine it closely.
You can examine the washing machine and dryer. Ensure that all hoses and exhausts are securely attached and functioning. Look for any obstructions and check that the lint trap in the dryer is in good condition. Operate each appliance to confirm that they are working properly. You can also look for water stains and mold.
Kitchen Appliances
For apartment residents, this is where most of the essential appliances are located. That is why it’s worthwhile to inspect all these appliances. Start by activating the stove to confirm that it heats up quickly. You should also open and close the oven door several times to check for a proper seal.
Do not forget the dishwasher, though. Ensure that the dishwasher doesn’t have any leaks or unusual smells. Start it and allow the water to run before shutting it off.
Utility Expenses
Along with the monthly rent, you might be responsible for paying various utility costs during your tenancy. These might include water, gas, air conditioning, sewage, garbage disposal, and electricity expenses, among others. Your lease terms should explicitly state which utility expenses you are responsible for.
It is possible that some utilities may be included in the monthly rent, but it varies from one apartment to the other. To clarify any uncertainties, make sure to consult with your landlord before signing the lease.
Pet Policy
Perhaps, you’re excited to surprise your furry friend with a new apartment! With that said, make sure to double-check the apartment pet policy beforehand. The lease agreement should specify the pet policy established by the landlord. This is an important aspect to consider if you own a pet or plan to get one. Make sure to review the following details:
- Any pet deposit fee imposed by the landlord
- The conditions under which the deposit can be refunded
- The types of pets allowed
- Any restrictions on pet weight
The Rental Agreement
Have a professional (such as a real estate agent or attorney) review the lease before signing it to verify that it’s a standard agreement without any hidden terms. This enhances transparency between the landlord and the tenant right from the beginning of the apartment search.
You should also carefully review the lease yourself to make sure it meets your specific requirements. Other aspects to review the rental agreement include the following:
● Apartment lease options (whether it’s a 6-month, one-year, or month-to-month agreement)
● Due date for rent payments each month
● Rules about having roommates
● People responsible for apartment maintenance
● Parking regulations
● The conditions under which the security deposit will be refunded
The Takeaway
Having a steady monthly income and paying the security deposit when renting your next apartment is a typical rule indicating that your relationship with the landlord will work properly. It is also important to budget for the other monthly expenses associated with renting. That way, you’ll be able to minimize stress and make the rental experience as smooth as possible.
Before signing the rental agreement, we recommend you thoroughly review it and ensure compliance with all lease terms during your tenancy. Now that you know what to look for when apartment hunting, moving to your dream home is going to be a breeze!
