Visiting
- Never rent an apartment or house, or sign a rental agreement, if you have not had a chance to view the property.
- If it is not possible to view the apartment or house, find someone you know who lives in the area and knows your preferences. Ask him or her to inspect the property for you.
- If you are visiting an apartment on or near a main street, make sure you are in the apartment long enough to get a feel for the noise level.
- When you are visiting a home or apartment, check the condition of everything. Don't be afraid to open cupboards and closets, run the water in the bathroom and kitchen areas, or check the condition of the carpets and floors.
- Check with the agent to see what cleaning and preparations will be done before you move into the property. Will the walls be repainted? Will holes be patched?.
- Ask the agent what happens in the event of an emergency. Is there onsite management or a person responsible for maintaining the building? Also, is there a 24-hour emergency number to call in the event of fire, theft, broken pipes, etc?
- If there is something about an apartment you would like to see changed, be sure to ask the agent before renting.
- Be sure to ask about heating and cooling before renting.
- If you have pets, it is important to ask about pet owner policies. Some places also require a "pet deposit."
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