So, you’ve been searching for some time and finally found a rental. It looks amazing on paper, and you’re eager to give it an in-person walkthrough. Still, don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Just like when searching for the best Wilmington moving companies, you must conduct proper research first.
A tour will help you get a sense of the rental’s condition and what it might be like to live there, but to make the most of your visit, it’s better to go well prepared. To determine if an apartment is your dream home or not, here are some things to look out for on your first visit.
Walk Through the Rental
Touring the unit will allow you to assess the exact layout, see the window placement, and check its proximity to amenities such as stairwells and elevators.
If another tenant was there before you, this is your opportunity to search for lingering odors or stains and request a special cleaning.
- Pro Tip: Visit the rental property at different times of the day to find out if it’s noisier during the night, if your neighbors are loud, or if parking becomes scant in the evening.
Evaluate the Condition or Existence of Amenities
While visiting, make sure to test that all appliances are working as they should. Among them, try out:
- Light switches
- Locks
- Doors, windows, and blinds
- Cabinets and closets
- Electrical outlets
- Water pressure
- Toilets, sinks, the tub, and shower
- HVAC and stoves, if there are any
- Cell reception
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Pay particular attention to any feature that may require repair later on.
- Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight and a phone to take photos of any potential issues. The photos will help you keep a fresh image of any issue when you’re back home, deciding whether to sign a lease.
Read Reviews of the Building
When you’re comparing options, clients’ reviews can provide valuable third-party insight.
If you’re renting an apartment, do research and read reviews about the building and its management company, if it has one. Try to find people who provide pros and cons, to get a more balanced perspective.
- Pro Tip: Watch for red flags. Are tenants complaining about the building’s maintenance? Are there complaints being overlooked?
Ask Questions!
The best time to ask questions about a property is when you first see it. To save you time, energy, and stress, here are an apartment’s must-ask questions:
- Do I need to get my own internet access?
- How are repairs handled, particularly during an emergency?
- How can I file a complaint?
- What is your pest-control policy?
- What other amenities are on site?
- Are there mandatory quiet hours?
- Can you move in with pets?
- Are there restrictions on painting or putting holes in the walls?
- Are utilities included in the cost? If not, how much do they cost on average?
- Pro Tip: North Carolina’s statewide average for basic utilities is around $450 per month.
Hire One of the Best Wilmington Moving Companies
Every rental has advantages and disadvantages, but you don’t want to get so excited that you overlook things that can seriously impact your quality of life later on. Following these recommendations will bring you closer to finding the apartment of your dreams.
Once that happens, give us a call!