Data shows that the number of renters in the US in 2021 was 114.4 million people. That means that about 35% of the US population are renters and not homeowners.
There are certain questions to ask when renting an apartment. It is important to understand what these questions are so that you know what to ask a landlord before making your decision.
Renting an apartment is a big decision that often holds you down. Most rental Agreements last anywhere from six months to two years, so you want to make the right decision.
Keep reading to find out what questions to ask when renting an apartment.
1. How Much is Rent?
The most obvious thing you need to ask before you rent an apartment is how much the rent is. This is important because you most likely have a budget that you have to stick to.
Different apartments can also range quite a lot when it comes to pricing. This will often depend on the size of the apartment and where it is located.
Apartment prices can also fluctuate very frequently, so you need to clarify. You may see one price listed online when, in reality, the price has already changed.
Keep in mind that short-term apartment leases will often have a higher monthly price. This is the same for a month-to-month leases since there is less security for the landlord.
That is why most people agree to have a 1 to 2-year lease, as it provides the best price. You should also ask if there are any late fees that you have to pay if your rent is late.
2. How Soon Can You Get in?
You also need to ask a landlord when you can get into the apartment. You may be moving out of your current place and need to quickly get into your new place.
Some apartments may be open already, or the tenant is working on moving. The landlord also may need to clean the apartment or repair it before you can move in.
There are a lot of things that can impact when you can get into the unit. While you are negotiating the terms of your lease, you need to ask about this important detail.
3. What Utilities Are Included in Rent?
You also need to ask the property management company about utilities. Every apartment has a different utility policy which can get a bit complicated.
You will need to figure out what utilities are included with your rent so you don’t have to worry about them. These usually include things like water and garbage costs.
The landlord should be able to tell you what utilities you have to pay for yourself. This usually includes electricity, Wi-Fi, and gas, but it can include other utilities.
This will help you to better understand how much you will have to pay every month according to your budget.
4. What About Parking?
One of these questions to ask when renting an apartment is regarding parking. Parking is one of the big downsides to renting an apartment because you don’t have much room.
Most apartments have one to two parking spaces that each tenant has access to. If you are lucky, these parking spots will be in front of your apartment entrance.
Although, some apartments don’t have much parking available for tenants. This can be extremely inconvenient and costly if you have to pay for parking.
5. Can You Have Pets?
Another important question to ask is regarding the pet policy. Some apartments allow pets, but there are often going to be restrictions attached.
You want to figure out how many pets you can own and what types of pets. You should also ask if there is a pet deposit that you have to pay in case of damage.
Some apartments even have restrictions when it comes to different breeds of dogs.
6. Are There Amenities?
One perk to living in an apartment is the different amenities. Some apartments have amenities like pools, outdoor spaces, and a gym where you can go to work out.
This is something that often impacts people’s decisions when choosing an apartment. This will depend on your lifestyle and what extra features you want access to.
Keep in mind that apartments with several amenities may have higher rent.
7. Are There Lease Options?
When renting an apartment, you may have access to different leasing options. The most common type of lease is going to be a standard 12-month lease.
Although, some apartments offer short-term leases that are six months to nine months long. You may even have access to a month-to-month lease that does not require a time commitment.
Depending on your goals and needs, you may need a longer or shorter lease.
8. What Apartment Changes Can be Made?
You should also ask about the different changes you can make to the apartment. Some landlords do not allow you to make any big changes or paint any walls.
Some apartments allow you to paint with certain colors or hang up items on the walls. It depends on the landlord and what kind of policy they have around these changes.
Important Questions to Ask When Renting an Apartment
If you are going to rent an apartment, you may be overwhelmed by this decision. There are certain questions to ask when renting an apartment to help you decide.
This is important because you are most likely going to have a lease that requires you to commit for some time.
Do you want to find out more about being a tenant? Contact us today at Reedy and Company for tenant and property management information.
