When you’re looking for places to rent, the process can be exciting and stressful at the same time. You want to make sure that you find just the right place to call home without busting your budget. At Summerwind Apartments, we know a thing or two about renting, and we’re here to help you in your new home search. We’ve come up with a list of some of the most important questions to ask before you decide to sign on the dotted line. Check out our list of questions below, and if you happen to be looking for places to rent in the Garner area, we hope you’ll stop by Summerwind Apartments!

What Are the Contract Terms?

The rental contract is one of the most crucial elements to consider when you’re looking for places to rent. The contract terms spell out how long you are required to rent your apartment. If you know that you’ll only be in the area for 6 months, you won’t want to sign a lease for 12 months because you could be held liable for the full term, or at best, be charged a hefty penalty.

Knowing the length of your contract is only half of the equation. Make sure you know how much notice you need to give if you are planning to move out. If you wait until just a couple of weeks before moving out to notify your rental manager, chances are you’ll end up having to pay for an additional month’s rent that you weren’t planning on having to pay.

Finally, you should also take note of any other items spelled out in the contract, such as the security deposit. This is an upfront fee that you pay that will be returned to you as long as you’ve abided by your rental contract and have left your apartment in good condition. The terms for getting your security deposit back can vary from renter to renter so make sure to read the specifics carefully.

What is Included in My Rent?

It’s important to know exactly what you are getting for your monthly rental fee. If you assume that certain things are included and then you find out after signing your contract that they aren’t, your budget could take a big hit. Make sure to ask about things like utilities — are water and electricity included? How about gas, trash, and cable? Some places may also give you an uncovered parking spot, but then have you pay an additional charge if you want covered or garage parking.

Each place can differ when it comes to what they include with your rent, the key is to make sure that you fully understand the terms so you don’t experience any surprises. It would be terrible to sign a contract thinking that all of your utilities would be included, only to discover a bill in your mailbox that you weren’t expecting.

Who Do I Call If I Need Maintenance? What About Emergency Maintenance?

This is something that should be spelled out either in your rental contract or given to you when you sign up. But, if you haven’t been given this information, make sure you ask for it! You may never have to request maintenance help, but if you do, you’ll want to know who to call. And, if you are all of a sudden without hot water at 8 a.m. on a Sunday, you’ll want to know the right number to call so that you don’t just receive a recorded message.

Can I make changes to the apartment?

Many people like to make their home their own, and if you’re a particularly handy person, you might be tempted to paint some walls, install a new door, or build some shelves. Before you pick up that hammer or paintbrush, make sure that you are fully aware of the policies on making changes to the apartment.

Many rental properties don’t allow any permanent changes such as the addition or removal of paint, wallpaper, or fixtures. Even if you think they should be paying YOU for the fresh coat of paint you are contributing, they most likely won’t see it that way. That’s not to say that you won’t be allowed to make any changes, it just means that you should have a conversation about it with your rental manager and get the specifics in writing.

Call Summerwind Apartments

If you’re looking for a luxury apartment in a resort-like setting, look no further than Summerwind Apartments. With beautiful high-end finishes and features, plus more amenities than we can list, we’re sure you’ll love living in our community. Call today to schedule a tour!