What to Know Before You Sign a Rental Lease

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE You SIGN A RENTAL LEASE KNOW YOUR BUDGET • Experts recommend your rent be less than or equal to 30% of your monthly income 123456789 • Determine whether you can afford to live alone or if you need a roommate • Renting a home beyond your means will hurt you in the long run 3 KNOW YOUR CREDIT SCORE • Many landlords will check your credit history • Have an idea of whether your application credit situations on will be approved • Explain any negative your application KNOW WHERE TO LOOK • Some people prefer going through a broker • You may search for homes online • Ask friends and family members if they know of places for rent KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR • Choose a location that is convenient for work or school • Research the neighborhood online • Drive through the area during the daytime and nighttime • Look for any included amenities, such as: Laundry Wi-Fi Fitness center KNOW WHAT'S INCLUDED • Some apartments, condos, and homes include utility costs in the rental price • If utilities are not included, ask the landlord for an estimate • Call the utility companies to find out past usage if the landlord does not know KNOW WHAT YOu'RE SIGNING • Find out who pays for necessary maintenance and repairs • Understand various policies involving pets, visitors, and subletting • Learn about any reasons why either you or your landlord could break your lease KNOW YOUR WORTH • A landlord's insurance does not cover tenants in case of emergency or disaster • Get renter's insurance to protect you and your possessions • Affordable policies can cover you against theft, damage, and even displacement Sources: Infographic Provided by: www.moneycrashers.com/know-do-before-renting-apartment freshome.com/2008/05/28/10-things-you-must-know-before-re nting-an-apartment WR WESTERN PROPERTY GROUP www.yorkblog.com/twenty/2012/10/12/1hings-you-must-know- before-renting-an-apartment www.westernpropertymanagementsanjose.com