Are you hunting for an apartment? Perhaps it’s your first time leaving your childhood home, or maybe your current residence has started to feel less “homely” and more like “what’s this mystery leak in my roof again?” Either way, you’re all set to upgrade. But before signing the lease agreement, let’s discuss the strategy of finding the perfect place.
With wide-angle photos, neatly fluffed pillows, and just the right amount of sunlight filtering through spotless windows, rental ads can look dreamy online. But don’t be fooled by that aesthetic trap. Behind those Instagram-worthy shots could be a moldy, costly place next to a railway track. Accordingly, we’ve compiled a list of essential factors you must check in a rental listing, based on advice from professionals. Let’s examine 13 key factors to verify before making a decision.
Location
Good location means nothing without context. Stanza Living advises digging deeper and looking up the exact address, rather than just the neighborhood name. Use Google Maps to:
- Locate local necessities (grocery stores, cafés, gyms)
- Calculate your travel time
- Virtually explore the region using Street View
Bonus tip: Check the public transportation access if you don’t drive. “Near the metro” could refer to a 20-minute walk under the sun.
The Essentials: Beds, Bathrooms, and Square Footage
Do you know that many listings try to divert your attention with aesthetics and skip the basics? Make sure to always check:
- The entire square footage
- The number of bedrooms and restrooms
- Floor layout (if a 3D tour is available, that’s a bonus): A “junior one-bedroom” could be a little more than a glorified studio with a curtain wall, despite the fancy name. Therefore, it’s always recommended to ask for the floor plan if it’s not shown, to avoid being misled.
Photos of the Location
Look for listings that include:
- Pictures of every room (not just the ones for Pinterest)
- High-quality photos
- Shared spaces and facilities
- Exterior building pictures
- Views of the closet and storage area
Bonus tip: If all the images are from a weird angle or use fish-eye lenses, they may be hiding something. Video tours (live or recorded) are a huge plus.
Essential Facilities (Identify Your Non-Negotiables)
Before you even begin the search, list your non-negotiables. Is in-unit laundry a requirement for you? Do you need central air for those hot summers? How about a pet-friendly place? Hey Kangaroo emphasizes this idea: if a listing doesn’t have your essentials, it’s probably a no-go.
Other must-have amenities:
- Parking accessibility
- Dishwasher
- Balcony or outdoor area
- High-speed internet choices
Safety and Ambiance in the Neighborhood
Zillow suggests exploring the broader neighborhood, walkability, nightlife, access to green areas, etc. But, don’t stop there:
- Look for local groups for real talk
- Utilize online crime maps to verify safety
- Inquire about building security, such as key fobs, cameras, and guards
If you’re planning on taking late-night Uber rides or going for dog walks, safety isn’t a choice; it’s a necessity.
The Landlord
A perfect apartment with an awful landlord is a nightmare in disguise. Check for:
- Professional property managers, as opposed to absentee landlords
- Online rent payment and support services
- On-site maintenance personnel
- Past tenant reviews or recommendations
Hey Kangaroo advises checking if the landlord is responsive during the application procedure, as this often indicates how supportive they’ll be later.
Pay Close Attention During the Tour
Whether it’s a video call or an IRL walkthrough, your objective is to examine everything. Here’s what to check:
- Faucets: water pressure
- Cabinets and drawers: Inspect for pests
- Windows, whether they open and close properly
- Light switches and Outlets
- Floors: spots, damage, creaks
- Walls and ceilings: indications of cracks, mold, leaks
Total Expenses
Let’s be clear: your monthly cost is not just the rent. A good listing should communicate:
- Whether the security deposit is refundable
- Move-in or application fees
- Parking charges
- Utility bills
- Pet charges
Some buildings secretly sneak in “amenity fees” for shared areas such as rooftop decks or gyms. Do the calculations before signing the application, not after.
Rules of the House and the Fine Print
Always refer to the policies section; if there isn’t one, that’s a warning sign. A few things to watch out for:
- Pet regulations, such as breed or size restrictions
- Policy for guests
- Policy on smoking
- Terms of lease length and renewal
- Renting or Airbnb regulations
These may sound boring at the moment, but you’ll be glad for avoiding an awkward landlord argument over your visiting German shepherd in the future.
Internet Choices
If you work or study from home, this is important. Inquire:
- About the ISPs that serve the building
- Do data caps or slow speeds apply?
- Does it come with Wi-Fi?
Some buildings offer bulk discounts on rent, which can result in significant monthly savings.
Identify the Scams
If it looks too good to be true, it may be. Be wary of:
- Listings far below market rent
- Owners who can’t meet in person or insist that you send money
- Multiple listings on different websites
Always plan a virtual or in-person tour, and never send money until you’ve seen the place and confirmed the lease conditions.
Read the Lease Carefully Before Signing
You’d be shocked at how many people skip this. A proper lease should state:
- Monthly rent and due date
- Maintenance obligations
- What utilities are covered
- Move-out regulations and deposit refund conditions
Request a copy to read at home. Don’t allow anyone to rush you through it in the building’s lobby. Also, consider the noise around the building, in the neighborhood, on the street, or from appliances, as it can significantly impact your quality of life.
Is This Place Perfect For Your Future?
Don’t focus solely on the present. Ask yourself:
- Will you still like this place six months from now?
- Does it suit your lifestyle and objectives?
- Is it suitable for visitors, partners, or pets?
A rooftop yoga deck sounds great, but if you’re more into quiet reading spots or weekend baking sessions, you’ll want a more peaceful environment or a kitchen layout that supports your lifestyle.
Conclusion
Rental listings are similar to dating profiles: they’re designed to highlight the best angles. However, it’s your responsibility to play detective, cut through the fluff, and figure out if this place can be your next house.
If you take the time to review these 13 factors before committing, you’ll avoid the typical renting regrets and find a place that’s not just livable but loveable.
May your future lease be filled with warm light, friendly neighbors, and no mystery leaks.
Happy hunting!
