What to Consider

• Location:
  • How accessible is campus from here?
  • What are the nearby bus lines?
  • Am I close to stores and restaurants?
• Floor Plan:
  • How many bathrooms are there?
  • Is there a shower or bathtub?
  • How large are the bedrooms?
  • Is there enough closet space?
  • How large is the kitchen?
  • How old are the appliances?
• Facilities:
  • Where are the nearest laundry machines?
  • Is there additional storage space?
  • What kind of security does the apartment management provide?
  • Are the buildings well lit at night?
  • Is there a peephole in your door?
  • Are there enough smoke detectors and easy-to-reach emergency exits?

Below are some questions you may want to ask the apartment managers.

• Are utilities included in the rent?
• Are pets allowed?
• Is pest extermination an additional expense or a service provided by the building management?
• How do needed repairs get reported and handled?
• Does the superintendent live on site? If not, is one available by phone?
• What is the area's crime rate? (Statistics of reported crimes can be obtained by visiting the local police precinct closest to the building.)

Always be Prepared

Here is a list of things you should consider bringing when you come to look for an apartment or sign a lease.

• Photo ID (e.g. driver's license or passport)
• Checkbook (preferably for an account at a local bank)
• Approximately $200 in traveler's checks or cash. You will need money for a deposit, transportation, change for telephone calls, and other small expenses.
• ATM card and bank statements for savings and checking accounts

Information that you will need for the application:

• Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of your previous and current landlords
• Bank account numbers and branches to contact
• Recent pay stubs or tax returns

The Lease

So you've looked at every apartment in the area and have made your choice — now it's time to sign your lease! Here is some information to make leasing your new home a little easier.

Before Signing the Lease

Application for Rental

Before you sign your lease, you may need to fill out a rental application and pay an application deposit. Be sure to make a copy of the application and get a receipt for the deposit — keep these in a file. Be sure this is the apartment you would like to live in, as it can sometimes be challenging to get a refund. Make sure to read the fine print!

Security Deposit

Most apartment complexes require you to pay a security deposit, which is a fee intended to pay for damages to the apartment. Again, be sure to ask for a receipt and keep a copy of your check in your file. Specific responsibilities and requirements will be outlined in your lease, including whether or not you are eligible to receive all or part of the deposit back when you move out.

Guarantors

If you do not meet the financial qualifications of the complex you wish to live in, you may need a guarantor. This is someone who can support the claim that you are legally and financially responsible, and is equally liable for any settlements. Be sure to speak to the apartment complex about their terms for a guarantor.

Inspecting the Residence

Some complexes will show you a model of your new apartment but ask to see the actual apartment you are considering, if possible. Bring a parent, spouse, or friend — anyone who has experience looking at apartments.

Things to consider

1. Occasionally complexes will renovate their apartments. Do not rent an apartment under construction unless you understand and accept any risk involved.
2. If the residence does not meet the conditions set by you and the manager in writing (cleanliness and safety), do not move in!

Signing the Lease

Read the lease carefully before signing it, and make sure you understand it. Be sure to read the fine print!

Important Points

• Make sure to keep a copy of the lease in your files.
• Roommates: Include all roommates on your lease. Any roommate who does not appear on the lease is not responsible for the residence.
• Lease Term: Your lease term (most often 6, 9, or 12 months) will be listed on the lease.
• Insurance: Most complexes will encourage, and some require, some form of renter's insurance. This protects your belongings from theft, fire, and other hazards.
• Rent and Charges: Your rent and any other charges (for example, some complexes have pet rent) will be outlined in your lease, as well as due dates for rent, how it is to be paid, and any late penalties.
• Move-out Notice: You must provide your complex with written notice if you decide to move out when your lease is up. Usually you will need to provide at least 30 days of notice (check your lease for your specific requirements).
• Early Move-out: Some complexes charge fees for moving out of a residence early, or breaking your lease. These fees will be outlined in your lease.
• Community Regulations: Ask your property manager for a list of any rules set by the community (for example, evening quiet hours).