|
After you have chosen an area to live in and found an apartment you want,
being careful when negotiating and signing your lease can help you reduce the
cost of renting and potentially eliminate some of the issues you are likely
to face as a tenant. Here are some guidelines that can help.
Try to get a reduction in the monthly rent. In most cases,
not only are you eager to move in, the landlord is anxious to start
collecting rent. Ask the landlord if there is some way to get a slight
reduction - 2% to 5% is not unreasonable. If you are a good prospect for
leasing, the landlord may be willing to make a slight concession just to get
the apartment rented. If the landlord says no, you have not lost anything.
Examine the terms of the lease carefully. Look for items
that you may find hard to live with. Are there restrictions on pets, types of
furniture allowed (water beds, etc.) or any other items? Can you have
roommates? What are the payment terms? Is the penalty for late payment
severe? Does the landlord have the right to enter your apartment without your
permission? If the landlord's expenses rise (property taxes, maintenance,
etc.), can your rent be raised? Even though the lease document may be a
couple of pages long, you should read it carefully.
List all your roommates and have them sign the lease. While
some landlords will not accept multiple names on the lease, it makes sense to
ask. If all your roommates sign the lease, all share any liabilities. It will
also protect you if one roommate moves out before the end of the lease.
Review how the security deposit works. Try to get as low of
a security deposit as possible and get a receipt for it. There may rules in
your state about how large of a security deposit can be demanded. Landlords
protect themselves against damages with a security deposit. Be sure to make a
thorough inspection of the apartment before you move in to find any existing
damaged items. When you move out, the costs of repairing any damages will be
deducted from your deposit. If you are leaving the apartment in great shape
when moving out, try to get the landlord to inspect it with you before you
leave.
Talk to your landlord well before your lease ends. If you plan
to renew your lease, be sure to let the landlord know. You may even be able
to get some discount if you work with the landlord. Even if you plan to stay,
check out the market. If there are a lot of apartments available, your
negotiation stance can be stronger. Be a good renter.
Being a landlord is a business just like any other. Renters
and customers that are pleasant to work with usually get better service. A
good relationship with your landlord can be important if things go wrong.
Remember, your landlord is whom you are going to call if there is a leak in
your roof at 3 AM or there is no hot water. A good relationship may get the
problem resolved easier and sooner.
|
