For Ohio University students, finding the right off-campus apartment is an important step. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to approach apartment tours with a clear plan. This involves more than just viewing the apartment; it’s about asking the right questions, identifying potential issues, and comparing options objectively.
Pre-Tour Preparation
Before scheduling a tour, create a checklist of key factors, including rent, utilities, distance to campus, parking, and lease terms. Bring this list to every showing to demonstrate to leasing agents that you’re a serious and prepared tenant.
Prioritize your must-haves and nice-to-haves ahead of time. For example, in-unit laundry might be non-negotiable, while a dishwasher is a bonus. Knowing your priorities helps you focus on what matters most.
Asking the Right Questions
During the tour, ask questions that actual renters would ask. Inquire about what’s included in the rent, such as heat, water, trash, and internet, as these costs can add up quickly. Ask about maintenance requests and the average response time.
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Find out if the lease is individual or joint, especially if you’re sharing the apartment with roommates. This distinction affects who’s liable if someone moves out mid-year. Don’t hesitate to ask why the previous tenants left; a vague or evasive answer can be telling.
Ask about noise levels, particularly if the apartment is near popular party streets, and whether the landlord enforces quiet hours. These details can significantly impact your living experience.
Inspecting the Apartment
Pay attention to details that matter in the long run. Check the water pressure, test light switches and outlets, and open closets and cabinets to gauge storage space. Look for signs of water damage and take a moment to smell for mustiness, which can indicate mold or poor ventilation.
Take photos and videos of the apartment to compare properties later and to document its condition before you move in. This can help protect your security deposit.
Evaluating the Neighborhood
A great apartment in a poor location can be a mistake. Walk or drive the route to campus at the time of day you’d normally commute to get a sense of the area. Check the street lighting at night, the location of the nearest grocery store, and the distance to laundry facilities, coffee shops, or restaurants.
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If possible, talk to current tenants to get an unfiltered view of what it’s like to live there, from the landlord’s responsiveness to the thickness of the walls.
Understanding the lease terms is important. Read the entire document, not just the summary provided by the leasing agent. Pay attention to renewal terms, sublease policies, and penalties for early termination. Clarify the security deposit process and any conditions that could lead to deductions.
If anything is unclear, ask for clarification in writing. A reputable property rental company should have no issue providing answers in an email rather than relying on verbal agreements.
Resist the urge to sign a lease on the spot, even if there’s pressure to do so. Take time to compare notes across properties, revisit your checklist, review your photos, and discuss the pros and cons with your future roommates. The best decisions are made through comparison and careful consideration, not under pressure.
