3 Tips to Consider Before Renting an Apartment

Renting an apartment is a good thing especially for first timers.  It means you are about starting a life on your own, it also shows you are doing fine in your endeavor.  You are excited and happy but wait! It can also turn to a very bad night mare if you do not put certain things into consideration.



Many families that started well are now looking for what to eat, part of their problem being the kind of home they have rented.  I do not think it is your wish to pack from one house to another house because you later found out that the apartment you rented is a wrong one.

The following tips will help you find an accommodation that will be beneficial to you.

1. Ask Relevant Questions

Before you pay for that accommodation, find a way to get someone in that particular house who you can ask some questions about the house.  They may prove uncooperative in your first attempt because they do not know you, but getting yourself familiar with them will help you achieve your purpose.

Ask about their relationship with the landlord and among themselves.  Enquire about the neighbors you are about to have, if they are at peace with one another or they have the history of fighting each other.  Ask about their well being and the progress they have made so far in that compound.

Ask about the utility costs; check if they are included in your tenancy agreement.  Discuss with your landlord the extent of your responsibility in the yard maintenance; ask him who is responsible for what.

Ask about the security situation of the area.  How often do they experience robberies, burgles, street fights and other kinds of criminal activities.  All these you have to know in order to make your decision.

Consider the distance to your work place in order not to pay more than what you bargained.

2.  Consider Your Income

Before renting an apartment, you need to find out how long you will stay on the existing terms before any increment is made.  Some house owners increase their rents immediately an existing term expires.  You need to consider if you have the funds to handle such increment.

It is better you negotiate with your landlord for renewal of the tenancy on the existing terms for at least 3 times before any increment can be made.  This way, you will have prepared yourself for such occasions if they arise.

3. Living With The Landlord

I have heard several people say they lived in peace with their landlords but 95% of those who live together with their house owners end up in regrets.  Some house owners can be very difficult, unappeasable and resentful.  Before paying for that apartment where the landlord is also living, take a good look at yourself and consider if you are ready to manage with a difficult landlord.  Living with such person will not only make you miserable, it will end up leaving you frustrated.

Do you have other tips, please do not hesitate to share it in the comment box.