Apartments & Condos for Rent

As your rental agent I can show you properties that fall into your price range and suit your location needs. Schools, accessibility to work, highways and public transportation should all be considered. Considering your needs I will show you properties that are listed both on and off book, some you do not have access to. When it is time I will also help negotiate the terms of your lease if needed and work for you to make your experience as satisfying as possible.

Your Apartment Walkthrough

You will most likely be signing a lease and spending up to the next year and possibly beyond in your new home so you want to make sure you’re making the right decision.

In order to make your walkthroughs successful make sure you come prepared. If desired bring a camera to take pictures of any problematic areas, and make sure you have a notepad and pen handy to take notes. Also, bring a tape measure and size up the doorways to ensure your furniture will fit through them.

Your First Look

Observe the location of the phone and cable jacks (if you’ll be using them) and that they are functioning and accessible.

Get assurances that the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and in the appropriate areas. If warranted ensure that fire extinguishers are in place.

Safety Checks

Assess the windows and doors to make sure they open and close properly. Try all locks and doorknobs to ensure they are secure and not wobbly. Be sure to ask to receive a key if there is more than one type of lock.

See if all window coverings are intact, including screens. Feel and inspect for drafts, you want to make sure your home will be draft free and energy efficient.

If your apartment is in a complex find the fire escape plan and make sure you know where to go in the event of a fire or other emergency.

In the Bathroom

Flush the toilets to make sure the plumbing works properly, no leaks or excessive noises while filling. Make sure the handle is sturdy, jiggle it to make sure it doesn’t cause any leaks and check its sturdiness.

Look under the sink to make sure there are water discolorations, odors or signs of leaks. Run the faucets, make sure the sink drains the water properly. Make sure the shower head works and is the shower head a water saving device? Test the hot water to ensure it heats up in a timely manner and observe the water pressure.

In the Kitchen

Inspect each of the appliances (microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, etc.) and make sure they are working properly. Turn on all the burners on the stove to make sure they are working. Open and close the oven door, and look for all the racks in the oven. Be sure the broiler is in working order.

Open and close the refrigerator doors and pull out every drawer and for any musty smells. Is there is an ice maker? Does it work? Make sure the refrigerator is chilly and the freezer is cold. Be sure to open and close all the cabinet doors and drawers. Check for chips and dings. Examine the kitchen flooring for scrapes, scuffs and cuts, and check the counter tops for any stains, burns or chips.

Additionally, don’t forget to look for signs of an insect or rodent infestation, such as droppings or chew marks.

Bedroom and Living Room

Operate the blinds to make sure they work properly. How are the walls? Observe any cracks and dents in the walls and baseboards, which should be repaired to avoid further damage.

All light switches, and ceiling lights should work.  Evaluate the air conditioner for cleanliness and make sure it is working, listen for strange sounds. Be aware of any weird smells, which is a sign that the filter needs to be changed.

Notice the finer details, like stains on the carpet, chipping paint, peeling wallpaper, nail holes in the wall.

Once you and your landlord or rental agent have completed the apartment walkthrough, clarify the terms of the security deposit.  This is the time to schedule any needed repairs before your move in date. Make sure to sign a document detailing the agreed-upon condition of the property.