Q: I recently graduated and landed a good job. I am about to rent my first apartment and want to make sure I don’t make a mistake. What should I look out for? — Christine
A: Renting a home is a significant commitment, not only because of the legal agreements involved but also due to the time and effort it takes to find and settle into a new place. The last thing anyone wants is to end up in a bad situation that could have been avoided with some foresight.
To ensure you make the best decision, conducting thorough research on three key aspects: the neighborhood, the property’s condition, and the landlord’s credibility is crucial.
First and foremost, consider the neighborhood and whether it aligns with your lifestyle preferences. Visit the area multiple times at different hours and on various days. A community that seems peaceful on Wednesday morning might be bustling with noise and have limited parking on a Saturday afternoon. During these visits, pay attention to potential nuisances like loud neighbors or barking dogs that might not have been initially apparent. Research crime rates and community amenities online to get a better understanding of the neighborhood.
Next, evaluate the condition of the property itself. A broken-down home in a great neighborhood will still be a hassle. Inspect structural elements such as walls, ceilings, doors, and windows for any signs of damage or disrepair. Check if the landlord provides regular pest control services and ask about how needed repairs are handled.
Remember, properties are shown in their best condition to potential tenants; if you notice problems during your visit, they will probably worsen over time. Of course, no property is perfect, so set realistic expectations considering your budget. That said, even a relatively inexpensive apartment should be well-maintained.
Finally, verify the legitimacy of your landlord. With abundant information available online, you can check property records through county offices to confirm ownership. This ensures you are dealing with the rightful owner or their authorized agent. Additionally, investigate whether the property is in foreclosure, if there are any pending homeowner association issues, or if they have had to evict prior tenants.
Understanding your landlord’s history with previous tenants can provide insight into their management style and reliability. Do not be afraid to ask about past evictions and their reasons to gauge their attitude towards tenant relations.
By taking these precautions, you can avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed decision about your first rental home.
Remember, knowledge is power — arm yourself with it before signing on the dotted line.
Board-certified real estate lawyer Gary Singer writes about industry legal matters and the housing market. To ask him a question, email him at gary@garysingerlaw.com, or go to SunSentinel.com/askpro.