4. VISIT POTENTIAL APARTMENTS

Once you've found a listing that has promise, you should call right away to schedule an appointment. You will often reach an answering machine, so be prepared to leave a clear, concise message. Say that you are calling about the apartment advertised in whatever publication, give your name and telephone number, and ask the person to call back at his or her earliest convenience to schedule an appointment to see the apartment. If you haven't heard anything in 24 hours, be polite, but follow up with another call repeating your interest. There are times when these renters get swamped with calls, and won't bother to return your call, but if you catch them when they're around, you can usually weasel yourself an apartment.

If you are unable to schedule an appointment, be sure to do everything you can to make a good impression. Arrive on time, dress neatly, and act like a responsible individual who isn't going to skip rent payments, trash the apartment, bounce cheques, or piss off the neighbors.

Once you've gotten the chance to speak with a human being, ask some intelligent questions. Here is a list of general questions to start you off:

  • How long is the lease?
  • Do I have the option to renew?
  • Are utilities included in the rent? Which ones (gas, electric, water, cable, etc.)?
  • Can I keep pets in the apartment?
  • Am I allowed to sublet? If so, for how long?
  • What sort of security does the building have?
  • Does the building have laundry facilities?
  • Does the building have a super or some sort of arrangement for repairs?
  • Does anyone else have keys to the apartment?
  • Do I need special permission to make superficial changes (e.g., painting walls)?
  • Is the apartment de-leaded? (This is mandatory if you have a child living there.)
  • Is there a guest policy?
  • Is parking available? If so, is it included in the rent?
  • Are there any weirdos living in the building that I should know about?
  • What's the rate of rent increase from year to year?