Today on the show we’re sharing all about our worst RENTAL NIGHTMARES we’ve had over the last nearly four years of being married and living in rental properties. Two apartments and one townhouse later, we’ve learned a LOT. We’re hoping that this episode isn’t just entertaining, but that it’s helpful to know what to look for when you’re shopping for your next home, whether it’s to rent OR buy. There are so many things we didn’t know to check (like the condition of the washer or if there’s hot water in the showers) but also so many things we just couldn’t know or prepare for… so hopefully hearing our stories will better equip you to NOT have the misadventures we’ve had as millennial renters!
Click here to listen!
A few tips for renters (or buyers!) just in case you don’t have time to listen to the full episode…
- Don’t put a deposit down for an apartment because you’re worried a unit may be gone, or you feel pressured from the leasing agent. Is your deposit called a “deposit” or an “amenity fee?” Read the fine print and ask questions! Don’t go apartment hunting unless you know you will be moving SOON and you’re ready to sign.
- Think about things like trash pick up (how far away is the dumpster? Is there hallway pickup that may cause your hallway to smell like trash?) and guest parking. If there are only a few visitor spots for a large building, be realistic and realize your guests will likely need to use public parking – what does that look like? Is there towing? Again, ask all the questions you can think of.
- Check and see if the vent in the kitchen actually ventilates to the outside or if the air just comes out of a little fan above the microwave. If it’s the latter… decide whether you’re okay with the food smells that are going to linger not just in the hallway from your neighbors but also in your apartment, possibly for days.
- If renting a place with a backyard, check the condition of it! Has it been raked? Is there grass growing? If there are areas of neglect in the backyard, realize that this may contribute to a potential insect infestation. Speaking from experience over here. :)
- Check the condition of the appliances. Lift the washer lid, look inside the detergent container, see if there’s actually water flowing through the fridge. While you’re on the topic of water, run your forearm under the showers to make sure hot water is flowing through the shower faucets. It’s the little things you might not think of that can be a headache later!
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