5 Questions to Ask Before Renting That Apartment

Are you looking forward to getting your first apartment or moving to a new one? These days, finding the right apartment to rent is a big decision as it affects your wellbeing and lifestyle.

Before you decide to pay for that apartment, here are five questions you need to ask yourself:

1. What are the lease/rent terms?

A lot of people don’t find out the full the details of all necessary payments and the rent duration before settling the estate agent and paying the landlord. While a lot of landlords ask for a year’s rent, some still demand for two years rent despite several state governments stipulating that only a year’s lease should be paid. Don’t enter one chance like my friend. The agent told him the rent was N400,000 and as a first-time renter, he thought it included the agreement and commission, only to be denied entry into the apartment until he paid an extra N100,000. Remember to always ask for breakdown of all payments.

2. How secure is the property and location?

Security of your new neighbourhood is a very important consideration before making payment for the apartment and you may need to conduct extensive research on this. A good place to start is by asking current from residents. Other than the neighbourhood, you should also find how secure the property itself is. Check if the doors, windows or gates are are secure and if the fences and walls are vulnerable.

3. How often does the rent go up?

In Lagos state for instance, some landlords increase the value of the rent at will without bothering about their tenants. So ask before you are made to pay more in a short while.

4. What is the guest policy?

This might seem like a funny question but I have heard situations where landlords complain that a particular tenant receives too many visitors or have guests that have stayed too long.

5. Do I need a co-signer?

The issue of having a co-signer is a bit tricky but it is better you ask. Some landlords may deny you accommodation because you are a single lady, for instance. So you might need to go with a man that will co-sign the apartment before you’ll be granted the apartment even if you have your money. Asking this question can save you from embarrassment before