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9 Essential Questions to Ask Your McDonough Landlord Before You Move In

McDonough Property Manager Showing a Rental PropertyIf you’re looking for a new place to live, a McDonough single-family rental home may be the perfect fit. There are certain questions you must ask your landlord before signing the lease. Before moving into a rental home, this article will explain the most crucial questions to consider. This will ensure that you have all of the data necessary to make a wise decision.

1. Are there any deposits or non-refundable fees required, and what are they for?

Some landlords may request a security deposit, but others may require a non-refundable cleaning fee. Make sure to inquire about any deposits or costs so you can plan ahead.

2. What is included in the monthly rent (e.g., water, electricity, internet)?

There are some landlords that do not include utilities in the monthly rent while others do. Utilities can dramatically increase the expense of living in a rental, so make sure you understand who is responsible for what. Better still, request an estimate of all utility costs based on the prior tenant’s usage.

3. How often is the rent due, and when is a late fee assessed?

Ask when the rent is due and what the penalties are if you are late. The majority of McDonough property managers require rent to be paid on the first of each month, however, some may grant a grace period of a few days before incurring a late fee. Ensure you inquire about this so you may make appropriate plans.

4. What payment methods does the landlord accept?

Some landlords only accept checks, while others may allow payments through the internet. It’s vital to know which payment methods your landlord accepts so you can figure out if they’ll work for you. Some tenants may not want to deal with the inconvenience of paying in person or having their landlord come to their door each month to collect rent. If rent is not paid electronically, some landlords demand a processing fee. It’s crucial to ask this question in either case so you can plan how you’ll pay your rent every month.

5. Are there any restrictions on who can live on the property or what they can do (e.g., no pets)?

Some landlords impose residency restrictions on their rental properties. They may, for example, only allow visitors for a limited time. Others may not allow any pets. Inquiring about these limitations prior to relocating will prevent any unpleasant surprises in the future.

6. How often does the landlord come around to check on things, and what happens if something needs repairs/fixes?

It’s crucial to understand how frequently your landlord will visit. Some landlords inspect their premises once a month, while others only visit when repairs are necessary. Make certain to inquire about this so you’re prepared. Also, inquire as to how to identify repair and maintenance problems as well as how long it will take to remedy them.

7. What is the lease term, and are there any penalties for breaking it early?

Because breaking a lease might be costly, you should always know the duration of your lease prior to moving in. If a long-term lease isn’t an option, inquire about other options. Shorter leases are often available for a slightly higher rent. If you need to terminate your lease, find out the associated fees. If you break your lease early, most landlords demand a penalty, which is often equal to the rent you would have paid for the entire lease term.

8. Which furnishings and appliances are included?

There are some landlords which supply furnishings or appliances and some who do not. You’ll have to figure in the cost of furnishing an unfurnished rental if you’re moving in. Before you move in, make sure to inquire about this so you can budget accordingly.

9. Would the landlord live there?

This is a crucial question because it might help you anticipate what to expect. If the landlord indicates they would live on the property, they may be a more responsive and hands-on landlord. If they state they won’t, inquire as to why. If they are unwilling to explain, it may indicate that things are not quite as they appear.

 

Before moving into a rental home, ask these questions to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Examining what Real Property Management Anchor has to offer is another excellent strategy to choose a solid rental home. Our team of professionals will answer all of your questions and help you feel confident in your choice of a rental home. Browse our listings today!

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