Finding An Apartment: Or How I Managed To Actually Understand My Lease
DeAndre' Upshaw on Apr 23, 2009 Note: An ongoing series about finding an apartment. See Parts 1, 2 and 3.
So now that you've decided that you can afford to live away from your mama, you've researched and found a place, and investigated it for rodents; now its time to sign the lease!
But wait: You didn't graduate from law school and your knowledge of contracts ends and begins with what you've garnered from episodes of Judge Hatchett. So what's a prospective renter to do?
Don't worry, if you follow a few simple guidelines you'll be able to not only understand your lease, but you'll be able to see where its weaknesses (if any) lie. Ready for the crash course? Let's go!
- Analyze - Reading a thick stack of legal-sized papers can be a daunting task. If you break it up into sections, however, it'll be easier for you to digest and understand. After you've completed your section, consult with your prospective landlord about the paragraphs you've just read.
- Ask Questions - Your prospective landlord should be able to answer any and every question you can throw at them concerning the lease in front of you; if something sticks out to you as wrong or unfair, bring it up.
- Compromise - Depending on what type of property you are trying to get in to, you may have some wiggle room with the price amount and other things included. For instance, you might be able to haggle your price point down if the unit is not in the greatest conditions. When you did your inspection, if there were issues that you can live with (carpet stains, ect) see if you can bring the price down because of it. Ask to look at other units in the same price bracket and see if they are comparable. Remember - they need you. If you don't move into the property, they are losing money.
Above all, just remember to ask questions. Even if they seem silly, it's better to get them answered now than to be in poor conditions later.
Got any other tips? Leave them in the comment section! And remember that we are giving away a $50 Sonic Gift Card as this month's E-Update prize! You still have a few more days!
DeAndre'
