What you should consider before moving into a rental property

We’re cruising through the spring months and as we head into the summer season we get into the time of year that we call the busy moving season.

Some might be moving into a new home or moving their business, but another area of moving we see often during the spring and summer months is with rental properties – mainly apartments and condos. As leases come to an end, those who choose to live in rental properties – or those looking for one for the first time – will be searching for the best fit for them as they look to sign their next lease.

Like any type of moving, apartment and condo moving brings its own unique set of challenges and to-do lists, but unlike home moving, you aren’t dealing with mortgages or other house-related issues. Instead, you take on things like renter’s insurance, deposits, and leases.

We’re experts in apartment and condo moving and have handled just about every situation imaginable, so we put together a few important pieces you should know if your next move is into a new rental property.

Use extensive research to find the best fit for you

This should be the first step of any apartment or condo search. In any instance where you are signing a lease, you are locked in for a set amount of time, so you want to make sure you’re completely comfortable with the situation before signing.

Make sure you are comfortable with the area you are moving, the price range of the rent, and with the amenities being offered or the things required of you as a tenant. It’s also encouraged to go take a visit of the property before signing.

Know all the details of what you’re paying

There’s generally a list of fees required when you sign up for a lease, like security deposits, a month’s rent in advance, and paying for additional appliances. It’s important to sit down with the landlord and go over each cost expected of you so you are fully aware of how much you are paying.

Ask questions at signing

As you sit down for your final meeting with the landlord to sign your lease, use this time to ask any final questions you might have about your contract, the facilities, or just about leasing in general. Be sure to review everything you are signing so you understand what is expected of you.

Buy renter’s insurance

This is an absolute must for anyone who is renting. This will give you peace of mind as a renter, and also keep your personal belongings protected should some unfortunate instance occur. Whether it’s a break-in, a flood, or a fire – you’ll be covered and will be able to get back some of what you lost.

Set up your utilities in advance

Once you know you’ll be signing your lease for a new rental, begin contacting the necessary utility companies in your area to get accounts set up with what you’ll need. Some apartments and condos have certain utilities included with your rent.

Complete a move in checklist

Once move in day arrives and you start bringing your belongings into your new home, the landlordwill provide you with some type of move in checklist to assess the current state of your rental property. Be sure to go around and examine everything to check for any damages or things missing and write them down so you aren’t charge for it at a later date.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® is the first and largest franchised moving company in the United States. Let us help move you forward! For more helpful tips and information on moving services subscribe to our blog and like us on Facebook.