The easiest way to solve the housing problem is to contact a real estate company. But the services of real estate specialists cost a lot.
Most ads are from realtors. Proposals from owners are less common. And the presence of an intermediary always increases the cost of rent.
An extensive list of documents. To rent a decent condo, you need references from previous landlords, an American Social Security number, a certificate of income, a certificate of no criminal record. The Condominium Association can turn a blind eye to the lack of any paperwork if you pay a year’s rent in advance.
Pay several months in advance. Even with all the paperwork, you may be asked to pay several months’ rent in advance.
Deposit. Keep a deposit of money with the landlord. This may be used for repairs, if you break something. Also, the landlord has the right to keep it if you terminate the rental agreement early.
How to avoid problems:
- Make sure that the amount of rent and deposit are stated in the contract. Make sure there are no unaccounted for late fees.
- Sign the contract only if it is as detailed as possible. Pay particular attention to whether there are plans for a move-in.
- Pay the rent only after signing the contract.
- Do not believe the offers, where luxury apartments are rented for less than the market price.
- Take pictures of all broken or damaged items. Do not spare time for this, because because of the missed detail you may lose your deposit.
- Negotiate what kind of changes you can make to the apartment.
- Negotiate the terms of the deposit return.
- Find out if your home has lead-based paint or lead-based paint. This is a health hazardous compound that was often used in homes built before the 1950s.