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A J.C. Hart Apartment Community in Lafayette, IN
 

Dont Make These Common Mistakes When Renting An Apartment In Lafayette

July 01, 2021

Apartment building exterior

Apartment searching might seem simple, but many Residents make mistakes when renting an apartment in Lafayette. They exceed their budget, don’t check out the surrounding community, sign a lease before reading it, and fail to take photos after moving in. Each of these omissions can spoil your renting experience. To make the most of your hunt and secure the best apartment for your family, avoid these frequent faux pas.
 
Fitness Center in a Lafayette apartment community.

Overlooking Recurring Expenses

One of the most significant deciding factors in your apartment hunt will be your budget. If there’s an apartment that’s close to the top of your price range, don’t neglect to consider recurring charges. You might learn that a pricier apartment includes in-unit laundry and utilities while you pay for those separately at a cheaper apartment. Various communities charge differently for reserved parking and pet fees. You might additionally discover that a community with amenities like a pool or fitness center saves you the expense of a gym membership.

Apartment community in Lafayette 

Not Investigating The Neighborhood

Few Lafayette Residents rent an apartment without a tour beforehand, but don’t neglect to learn about the neighborhood too. To find out more about your community, drive around it at different times and talk to the neighbors. Note noise levels, traffic volumes, and overall hospitality of the area. Maybe you’ll discover that the quiet neighborhood you observe at 2 PM throws roaring parties at night or has congested traffic every day at 5 PM.

Google can assist you as well. Do an internet search to learn more about attractions and shopping in that part of Lafayette, the schools, your new commute, and more.

Rental lease agreement.
 

Signing A Lease Without Reading The Fine Print

One of the most seen mistakes when renting an apartment in Lafayette is not reading the fine print. Before you sign the lease, read it methodically so that you know what you’re getting. If you feel off about something, read through it with a more knowledgeable friend or a lawyer. A Lafayette tenant information hotline can provide assistance as well.

You also need to understand your obligation as a Resident. Look for any requirements that you aren’t able to abide by. For instance, if you plan to sublet your apartment, but the lease prohibits this, you should make other plans. 

Model apartment bedroom
 

Forgetting To Get Some Pics During Move-in Day

When you’ve signed your lease and gotten the keys, you are ready to live in your new apartment! But before moving in, you have one final job. To prevent penalty fees later, document existing damage and let the leasing office know. A quality apartment community will make sure everything is clean and working properly, but unforeseen problems can arise. The top communities will schedule a walk through before move-in with management to identify all pre-existing damage together.

Take photos and notes of anything that concerns you. If your apartment community asks you to use a move-in checklist, make a duplicate of it to save for yourself. And feel free to include concerns that they don’t list.

Start Your Apartment Hunt At Precedent Flats

Start your apartment search off right by talking to Precedent Flats. Our Leasing Specialists are glad to show you around and answer every question about our beautiful community and apartments. Call 765-771-7085 or schedule a tour to find out more.