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

Charleston Property Manager Showing a Rental PropertyA Charleston single-family rental home could be just what you’re searching for if you’re looking for a new place to call home. Before you sign on the dotted line, you should ask your landlord several critical questions. This blog post will go over the most critical questions to ask when renting a home. This will ensure that you have all of the necessary information to make an informed decision.

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

Some landlords will ask for a security deposit, while others will demand a nonrefundable cleaning fee. Ensure you inquire about any deposits or costs so you can budget accordingly.

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

While some landlords include utilities in their monthly rent, other landlords do not. Be sure to inquire about who is responsible for certain utilities, as they might add significantly to the monthly rent. Better yet, ask for an estimate of the cost of all utilities according to the usage of the prior tenant.

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

Don’t forget to inquire about the rent due date and the consequences of late payment. Most Charleston property managers expect rent to be paid on the first of the month, but some may grant you a few days of leeway before charging you a late fee. Ensure you inquire about this so that you may make the necessary preparations.

4. What payment methods does the landlord accept?

Some landlords take just checks, while others may allow payments via the internet. It’s helpful to know which payment methods your landlord accepts so you can decide if they’ll work for you. Some tenants may not want to deal with the hassle of paying their rent in person or having their landlord come to their door every month to collect it. When rent is not paid online, some landlords require a fee for processing the payment. In any case, it is essential to pose this question in order to determine how you will pay your monthly rent.

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

Some landlords place limits on who is allowed to dwell in their rental units. They may, for example, limit visitors to a specific number of days. Others may be pet-free. Before you move, inquire about these limits to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

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

It’s critical to know how frequently your landlord will visit. Some landlords inspect their premises monthly, while others only come when something needs to be corrected. Ensure you inquire about this so you understand what to expect. Inquire about how to submit maintenance and repair difficulties, as well as how long it will take to resolve 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 how long your lease term is before you move in. If a long-term lease isn’t something you can commit to, inquire about alternatives. Some landlords offer shorter leases at a slightly increased rent. Inquire about fines if you need to break your lease. The majority of landlords will demand a fee for early lease termination, which is sometimes equal to the amount of rent you would have paid for the duration of the lease.

8. Which furnishings and appliances are included?

While some landlords supply furniture or appliances, some do not. If you are settling into an unfurnished residence, you must consider the cost of furnishings. Before moving in, be sure to ask about this so you can responsibly budget.

9. Would the landlord live there?

This is a vital question because the answer can provide insight into what to expect. If the landlord states that they would live there, they may be a more involved and attentive landlord. Ask for a justification if they respond negatively. If they refuse to explain themselves, it’s a clue that things aren’t as they seem.

 

Before you move into a rental home, ask these questions to ensure you have all of the information you need to make an intelligent decision. Looking at what Real Property Management Charleston has to offer is another great strategy to find a quality 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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