To assist you with the rental process, we would like to
recommend the following tips:

Start with a small note book or dedicated memo pad.

Buy a map of the area you are interested in.

Remember that you are making at least a $10,000 decision for the year.

Considerations to keep in mind:

Location – How far is it to your job, shopping, and public transportation?

Service – How will you be treated and how fast will they respond to your needs?

What are your size needs? Some guidelines on average size:

How many bedrooms do you need?

Number of bathrooms?

Are there adequate closets and storage? This is the feature most overlooked by renters.

What kind of laundry facilities are available? Is there a washer/dryer, laundry room or no facilities at all?

What are you parking options? For guests?

What floor is the apartment on 1st, 2nd, 3rd?

What kind of heat/air conditioning is there? Who pays for the utilities?

Who pays for the water and trash?

What is the condition of the apartment? Take your digital camera and take your own photos.

Compare Comparables:

Rent / Size Sq Ft = $$$ per Square Foot

Cut all potential ads from the newspaper and tape or glue to a memo pad before making your phone call inquiries. Then make notes directly onto your ad sheet as you call.

When visiting potential apartments take a writing pad with you and answer all of the above questions, so you don’t forget. After a few apartments the information you remember will begin to run together if you don’t.

Visit the apartments you have seen again without the owner/manager with you. Ask a random tenant how they like the management and service they receive.