Going apartment hunting.. what questions should I ask?

DH and I are moving to Florida next week. We want to rent for about a year before we buy something because we want to make sure we are in an area we like. We have 13 apartment complexes we are going to look at. I just don't know what I should be asking when I go. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!

Re: Going apartment hunting.. what questions should I ask?

what is included in the rent? (utilities, garbage removal, etc) what is/isn't covered w/ regards to repairs; such as appliances, interior structure. (walls, fixtures)

are there any additional costs/fees that is NOT included in the rent?

what are the policies regarding pets/moving furniture/deliveries/noise, etc.

how long is the lease? what are the penalties should you decide to break the lease early? (not that you will, but just in case of an emergency, it's good to know)

how much notice are you required to give once you are ready to move out?

eta: good ones i didn't think of until i read the other posts: laundry & parking??


um...that's all i can think of right now.

Message edited 1/10/2006 6:24:12 PM.

Re: Going apartment hunting.. what questions should I ask?

DH are doing the same but in NC(already lived in FL and loved it )

we are getting a month to month lease. It only came to about 10.00 more each month.

consider parking
firewalls(the more you have the lower your renters insurance is)

Re: Going apartment hunting.. what questions should I ask?

if they have or are planning on any assessments
if pets are allowed
what is the turn arround time for repairs
(i.e. does the bldg. super live in the bldg).

What ammenities does the bldg offer:
(i.e., vallet to accept packages,
cleaning services,
movie rental,
dry cleaner,
library,
gym,
pool,
clubhouse,
golf,
parking (or a deeded spot (is that extra or included with rent),
in apt laundry or on floor (how many per number of units on floor))

distance from the apartment to the: supermarket,
drycleaners if they are not in the bldg,
movie theater,
mall,
your office,
place to run/walk/park
eta: what is the move in and move out fee
how much notice do you need to give to reserve an elevator or a truck bay for deliveries

Message edited 1/10/2006 6:22:32 PM.

Re: Going apartment hunting.. what questions should I ask?

Thanks soo much! Keep em comin!!!!!!!