Avoid These Common Mistakes When Renting An Apartment In West Lafayette

July 01, 2021

Apartment shopping in the Discovery Park District may appear straightforward, but some Residents make mistakes when renting an apartment in West Lafayette. They pay too much, forget to research the neighborhood, agree to a lease without reading it, and never snap pictures upon moving in. Each of these omissions can spoil your renting experience. To make the most of your search and get the best apartment for your family, don’t make these frequent faux pas.

Fitness Center in a West Lafayette apartment community.

Forgetting Recurring Expenses

One of the most major deciding factors in your apartment hunt is your price range. If there’s an apartment that’s close to the top of your price range, don’t neglect to consider monthly charges. You might find that a more expensive apartment includes utilities and in-unit laundry while you pay for those individually at a less expensive apartment. Various communities charge differently for pet fees and reserved parking. You may additionally figure out that a community with perks like a pool or fitness center saves you the cost of a gym membership.

Neglecting To Check Out The Neighborhood

Not many West Lafayette Residents move into an apartment without a tour first, but don’t neglect to check out the neighborhood as well. To find out more about your neighborhood, explore it at various times and talk to the neighbors. Pay attention to noise levels, traffic volumes, and general hospitality of the area. You may discover that the quiet neighborhood you see at 2 PM hosts loud parties at night or has traffic congestion each day at rush hour.

Search engines can help you as well. Perform an internet search to find out more about shopping and attractions in that area of West Lafayette, the schools, your new commute, and more.

Signing A Lease Before Reading The Fine Print

Among the most common mistakes when renting an apartment in West Lafayette is not reading the details. Before you sign the lease, read it carefully so that you understand what you’re signing. If you are off about something, look over it with a more knowledgeable friend or a lawyer. A local tenant information hotline can provide assistance too.

You should also know your obligation as a Resident. Look for any specifications that you cannot follow. For example, if you plan to sublet the apartment, but the lease forbids this, you should rethink your plans.

Forgetting To Get Some Pics Upon Move-in Day

When you’ve signed your paperwork and gotten the keys, you are ready to live in your new apartment! But before you move in, you have one more task. To save yourself from penalty fees later, note pre-existing damage and let the leasing office know. A great apartment community will make sure everything is clean and functioning properly, but surprise problems can appear. The top communities will arrange a walk through prior to move-in with a maintenance technician to identify all pre-existing damage with you.

Take notes and photos of everything that bothers you. If your apartment community asks you to fill out a move-in checklist, make a copy of it to save for your records. And don’t hesitate to include problems that are not on their list.

Start Your Apartment Hunt At Continuum Apartments

Begin your apartment hunt right with Continuum Apartments. Our Leasing Specialists are happy to answer all of your questions and show you around our lovely apartments and community. Call (765) 476-0886 or schedule a tour to learn more.

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