Inspecting Apartments and Meeting Landlords

Make an Appointment You Can Keep

For each apartment you want to check out, call ahead to ensure that someone will be able to show it, and answer all your questions. You do not want to be put in a position where you have to revisit apartments unless you know that you really want to live there.
Be sure to request to see that actual apartment that is available (not one that is similar). Be on time so that your potential landlord will get a good impression. If you are late to view the apartment, your landlord may think that your will be just as nonchalant about paying rent on time.

If you will be sharing the apartment, it is best to bring both parties; acting as a representative for both renters can have undesirable results. The absent roommate may be dissatisfied with the apartment you chose, and can set a bad tone even before you move in.

It is much easier to discuss these issues when you are looking at the apartment than after you have moved in together. Also, having two perspectives is always better, as you can feel more confident about asking questions.

Making a good impression is also important; dress reasonably well, appear responsible and personable. This first impression will likely form the landlord's opinion and can inform his or her decision if it comes down to a few candidates.

Walking through the Apartment

When walking through the apartment, you are going to need to examine a lot in a short amount of time. This is why it is helpful to have your list of needs and wants as well as your list of questions for the landlord. Be prepared to make a decision on the spot, if the apartment meets all of your needs, as some markets can be pretty competitive.

Be sure to ask to see the actual apartment unit, rather than a similar one or a model. Bring a camera to take pictures so that you do not have to keep coming back as you narrow your search. Do not rent the apartment without seeing the actual unit; even if the apartment is occupied, the landlord should be able to a time for you to view it.

To read the whole article, visit MyNewPlace.com.