Renting a home is a big commitment, even though it’s most likely only temporary. So, to help you navigate your next move, here are six questions to ask your real estate agent before signing the lease on your home.
- ARE UTILITIES INCLUDED?
Now that you’re fully aware of how much the rent is going to be every month, you may be wondering if utilities are included. At Camillo Properties, all tenants are responsible for setting up their electric, water, and natural gas services with vendors directly, and must be turned on before the move-in date.
- WHAT ARE THE LEASE TERMS?
When you’re in the final stages of reading the fine print, make sure you fully understand the lease terms. Lease terms vary from 12 to 23 months, depending upon available dates. However, depending on the property, short-term leases (less than 12 months) are also offered on a case by case basis but may require an additional charge.
- WILL I NEED A CO-SIGNER?
The biggest reason you would need a co-signer is if you (the applicant) do not meet the income requirements. Co-signers or guarantors will not be accepted in place of credit or background. Your co-signer’s income must be equal to at least four times the monthly rent and may require an additional security deposit. Also, please note that your co-signer will be required to pay an application fee and submit all documentation.
- ARE PETS ALLOWED, AND IF SO, ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?
If you have animals in your life, your search for a rental home might be a little more challenging, especially if you have a lot of pets or if they’re exotic. Here at Camillo Properties, the maximum number of pets is two per home, and the maximum weight limit is 100 pounds. Pets are subject to visual inspection and shall agree to comply with all community policies by signing a separate Pet Addendum as well as pay a pet fee. Aggressive breed dogs (or pets that may have a violent or dangerous disposition) are not permitted, including, but not limited to the following: Pitbull, Staffordshire Terrier, Doberman, Rottweiler, Chow/and or any similar breed or mixed breed. However, this does not guarantee the approval of any other breed not listed. Exotic pets are prohibited.
- CAN I REMODEL, AND IF SO, WHAT WOULD I NEED TO CHANGE BACK?
Even though you’re renting, you’ll want to make your rental home your own. But before you start pinning accent wall colors, make sure your property manager approves with your making changes to the rental. Residents are allowed to make minor changes as long as they return it to the original condition before moving out. Otherwise, the maintenance costs of fixing nail holes, repainting walls, and replacing light fixtures will probably come out of your security deposit.
- WHAT IS THE MAINTENANCE POLICY?
Here at Camillo Properties, we take care of the exterior structure, major plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, windows, and Camillo appliances in the home. Our residents, on the other hand, do share some responsibility with the up-keep and general maintenance, which includes:
- Replace damaged blinds
- Tighten doorknobs
- Replace lost keys
- If locked out, call/pay for a locksmith
- Replace smoke detector batteries
- Replace the standard air filter every 30 days
