Apartment searching can be exhausting.  You search for the right complex, find a unit that fits in your budget, and endlessly debate the importance of different features.  Once you finally find a good place, it’s easy to ignore the apartment lease and just sign whatever the landlord hands you.

Don’t fall into this trap!

Here are a few ways you can navigate your apartment lease like a pro, and be more satisfied with your stay.

1.  Read Everything

Read the whole lease.  It doesn’t matter if the agent sighs loudly, checks their watch, or tells you that ‘it’s all very standard.’  Understand what you’re getting into!

If you’re confused about anything, ask for clarification.  If you don’t like a particular policy (such as a move out policy, early lease termination, etcetera), ask to change it.

Remember that landlords want good tenants to stay for a long time.  A little flexibility is often possible… but only if you ask for it. Continue reading “How to Navigate Your Apartment Lease Like a Pro” →