So, you’ve finally found an apartment in North Carolina that you like, and you just can’t wait to move in. It’s an exciting time for you, but there are several things you should be aware of before you sign those papers to seal the deal…

Before You Sign the Lease

• Drive around. Make sure you have driven through the neigborhood and surrounding areas to make sure you feel safe. If you still feel uncomfortable, you can contact the local police department and request the crime statistics for that particular area to be sure.
• Know the rules. Make sure you know if there are any “written rules and regulations” that the landlord may have.
• Know the parking situation. Would there be enough parking available if you had friends/family over? Is there a towing policy?
• Ask to see an actual, unfurnished apartment. Often times, leasing agents will show you “model” apartments that are fully furnished, which can sometimes be misleading.

Your Leasing Agreement

• Sleep on it. As the leasing agent for a copy of the lease so that you can take it home and thoroughly review it without feeling pressured. This will also give you the chance to read over any of the fine print and write down any questions or concerns you might have.
• Get it in writing. Never agree to anything that is said by word of mouth. Likewise, never believe everything you hear. Ask the leasing agent to write down any promises they make to you, then have them sign and date it. If he/she refuses to write it down, then chances are they weren’t going to keep the promise to begin with.
• Get a copy. If you are not provided with a copy of your leasing agreement, ask for one to be made for you. If you have any roommates, make sure that they are listed as occupants on the lease and that they have signed the lease. If they do not sign the lease, then they will only be liable to you, not the landlord.

For information on buying property in Raleigh, NC, contact Buyers Advantage for all your needs.

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