If you’re looking for a new place to call home, a Lexington single-family rental home might be ideal. Before you sign on the dotted line, you should ask your landlord a few key questions. Outlined in this blog post are the most vital questions that must be considered before moving into a rental home. This will ensure that you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.
1. Are there any deposits or non-refundable fees required, and what are they for?
While some landlords may require a security deposit, others may impose a nonrefundable cleaning fee. Be sure to inquire about any deposits or fees, so that you can plan your finances correctly.
2. What is included in the monthly rent (e.g., water, electricity, internet)?
There are landlords who do not include utilities in the monthly rent and some do. Utilities can dramatically increase the expense of living in a rental, so be careful to inquire about who will be responsible for what. Even better, request an estimate of all utility costs based on the usage of the prior tenant.
3. How often is the rent due, and when is a late fee assessed?
Don’t forget to inquire about the due date for rent and the repercussions of being late. The majority of Lexington property managers expect rent to be paid on the first of the month, however, some may give a few days leeway before collecting a late fee. Make certain to inquire about this so that you can plan accordingly.
4. What payment methods does the landlord accept?
Some landlords take just checks, although others may accept online payments. It’s important to know the payment methods your landlord accepts so you can decide whether they’ll work for you. Some renters may not want the trouble of paying rent in person or having their landlord knock on the door each month. If rent is not paid electronically, some landlords demand a fee to process the payment. In any case, it is essential to ask this question in order to organize your monthly rent payment.
5. Are there any restrictions on who can live on the property or what they can do (e.g., no pets)?
Some landlords put limits on who is permitted to reside in their rental units. They may, for example, only accept visitors for a particular number of days. Others may not accept any pets at all. Before you move, ask about these limits to avoid unpleasant surprises later.
6. How often does the landlord come around to check on things, and what happens if something needs repairs/fixes?
It’s crucial to know how frequently your landlord will visit. Some landlords visit once a month to inspect their houses, while others only come when something needs to be repaired. Make certain you inquire about this so you know what to expect. Ask how to submit repair and maintenance problems and how long it will take to address them.
7. What is the lease term, and are there any penalties for breaking it early?
Because breaking a lease might be expensive, you should always find out how long your lease term is before moving in. If you are unable to commit to a long-term lease, you should consider requesting alternatives. Some landlords may offer shorter lease terms for a little higher rent. If you must terminate your lease, find out what the consequences are. Most landlords demand a penalty for early lease termination, sometimes equivalent to the amount of rent you would have paid for the duration of the lease.
8. Which furnishings and appliances are included?
Some landlords include furnishings and appliances, and some others do not. You’ll need to figure out the cost of furnishing an unfurnished rental if you’re moving in. Be certain to inquire about this prior to moving in so that you can budget correctly.
9. Would the landlord live there?
This is an essential question because it can provide insight into what to anticipate. If the landlord states that they would live there, they are likely to be a more hands-on and attentive landlord. If they state they won’t, inquire as to why. If they refuse to explain themselves, it’s possible that something isn’t quite right.
Before you move into a rental home, you should ask such questions to ensure that you have all the data you need to make an informed decision. Looking at what Real Property Management Commonwealth has to offer is another wonderful approach to finding a good rental house. Our team of professionals will answer all of your questions and help you feel confident in your choice of a rental home. Browse our listings today!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
