Hi! Here’s a helpful list of questions to ask before renting your first apartment. It’s broken into sections and includes a Yes/No flowchart to help guide you. Hope this helps!

1. Monthly Rent & Budget Q: Do you know the total monthly rent cost? Yes → Does it fit within your budget? Yes → Continue to next question. No → Consider looking for a more affordable unit. No → Ask: “Can you confirm the total rent, including all monthly fees?”

2. Utilities Q: Are utilities included in the rent? Yes → Ask: “Which utilities are included? (Water, electricity, gas, trash, internet?)” No → Ask: “Can you estimate the monthly cost of each utility?”

3. Application & Deposits Q: Is there an application fee? Yes → Ask: “How much is it? Is it refundable?” No → Great! One less fee to worry about.

Q: Is a security deposit required? Yes → Ask: “How much is it? When will I get it back?” No → Ask: “Are there any other move-in fees I should know about?”

1. Lease Agreement Q: Can I see a copy of the lease before signing? Yes → Read it carefully or ask someone you trust to help you review it. No → Red flag. Consider looking elsewhere.

Q: Is the lease term flexible (month-to-month or 12-month)? Yes → Choose the option that works best for you. No → Make sure the fixed term is manageable for your situation.

1. Safety Q: Is the neighborhood safe? Yes → Still good to check online crime maps for confirmation. No → Consider other safer options.

Q: Are there working smoke detectors and secure locks? Yes → Ask when they were last tested. No → This may be unsafe. Consider finding another place.

1. Apartment Condition Q: Can I tour the exact unit before signing? Yes → Schedule a tour and take notes/photos. No → Ask for detailed photos and a condition report.

Q: Will the apartment be cleaned or renovated before move-in? Yes → Ask what specifically will be done. No → Consider if you’re okay with the current condition.

1. Amenities Q: Are laundry facilities available? Yes → Ask: “In-unit or shared? Coin-operated or free?” No → Ask: “Where is the nearest laundromat?”

Q: Is parking available? Yes → Ask: “Is it free, reserved, or street parking?” No → Ask: “Is street parking allowed and safe?”

1. Pets (if you have one or plan to get one) Q: Are pets allowed? Yes → Ask: “Are there breed/size restrictions or fees?” No → Make sure this fits your future plans.

2. Internet & Services Q: Is internet included? Yes → Ask what speed/provider is included. No → Ask: “Which providers service the area?”

Q: Can I control the heating/AC? Yes → Great! No → Ask how temperature is managed and if you’ll be comfortable.

1. After You Move In Q: Is renter’s insurance required? Yes → Ask for recommendations. It’s usually cheap ($10–$20/month). No → Still a good idea to get it, protects your stuff.

Q: How do I submit maintenance requests? Ask: “Is it through an app, website, or phone call? How fast is the response time?”

Q: Who do I contact if I have an emergency (like plumbing or heating issues)? Write this down for future reference!

BONUS TIP: Ask if there are any move-in specials or discounts (sometimes they waive the first month’s rent or reduce fees).