5 Questions You Could Ask a Potential Landlord
If renting is new to you, there are a few things you should know before you head out to look at apartments for rent. Beyond the typical questions of how much is rent and when is it due, understand that you can ask the landlord or rental agent many other questions to consider while researching apartments for rent.
1. Paint
Everyone assumes that you can't paint the walls in an apartment and will be stuck with boring beige until you move. That statement may not be correct, but you will never know if you don't ask. The fact is that many landlords do not care as long as you re-paint before you leave.
2. View or location
If you love the apartment but hate the location within the complex, ask if they have another unit available or coming up. If you prefer to be closer to the pool or in a quiet back corner, say so. The landlord may have apartment rentals that are not currently advertised as available.
3. Carpet
While new carpeting may seem like an expensive item to inquire about, do so anyway. Apartment complexes have annual budgets allotted to pay for things like new appliances, carpets, and countertops. In fact, replacing the worn carpet in every unit with laminate flooring may be a five-year goal for the complex. The simple act of inquiring about new carpet may move your unit up to the top of the list.
4. Discount
Before shopping for a new apartment, practice these three words: is that negotiable? Most renters do not think that rent is negotiable, but asking for a discount should be automatic. You never know when a rental agent has a quota to meet or a landlord really needs a unit rented. be prepared to offer to sign an 18- or 24-month lease if you need to secure a discount.
5. Early termination
While most rental contracts have an early termination clause that spells out the financial penalties of moving out early, ask if you can omit the clause and be prepared to state why. If you have a job that may require a transfer or a pending promotion, it doesn't hurt to ask in advance. You can even offer to pay more per month for the privilege.
The most important thing to realize when you are looking at new apartments is that you are in control. Ask for what you want. You might be pleasantly surprised.