When it comes to renting an apartment, there is an excellent chance you will need to sign a lease prior to moving in. Signing the lease is something you should be very careful about before you do sign it, because this is a legal document that must be followed with precision. Many people underestimate the power of a lease, and this is a mistake.
There are several things you should know prior to signing a lease if you wish to make the wisest decision possible for yourself. In order to assist you in knowing more about the lease, listed below are some factors you should consider prior to signing your name to the lease:
1. The Tenancy Act – this include the rules and requirements that the tenant must follow. These can vary from state to state, so it is very important that you are aware of the laws that will affect you. This works to protect the tenant and the landlord. There are often rules stated in this act that the tenant is required to follow. This makes it imperative you know what you will be responsible for in this act.
2. Realize you have the ability to negotiate. This is very important for the tenant to understand, prior to signing a lease. Regardless if it’s the price of the apartment or a parking space you feel should be included in the price of the apartment, it is up to the tenant to try and negotiate the best deal to benefit him or her.
3. The length of the lease. It is crucial you know how long the lease is for. Are you planning on living in this apartment for a long time or are you not sure? These are things you will want to discuss with the landlord prior to making a commitment. If you are in the area for a brief time, the landlord may work with you for a short lease. Whatever you do, do not sign a lease for a length of time longer than you feel you will need. This can cause you major complications down the road.
Being aware of the above tips can be a great way to make certain make the wisest decisions prior to signing the lease. It is very important you know as much as possible about what is included in the lease before you sign on the dotted line.
