Signing your first apartment lease is a big milestone. It’s exciting, but also a responsibility, and there are so many details that can make or break your experience. From hidden costs to landlord red flags, knowing what to look for in your first apartment lease is crucial. This guide covers key tips, hidden knowledge, and a personal story that shows why you should always trust your gut. Let’s break it down.
1. Read the Lease Agreement Carefully
Never sign a lease without reading every line. Look for:
Lease term: Is it month-to-month or fixed?
Rent amount: When is it due, what’s the late fee?
Deposits: Security deposit, cleaning fees, any non-refundable charges.
Maintenance: Who’s responsible for repairs?
Termination: How much notice to give? Any penalties for breaking the lease?
Lease renewal: How much notice do you need to give if you don’t want to renew? Does the rent automatically increase? Get it in writing.
Understanding the details is key when it comes to what to look for in your first apartment lease.
2. Budget for More Than Just Rent
Your first apartment lease often comes with extra costs like:
Utilities: Are any included?
Parking fees: On-site or street? Limited for guests? Can you park overnight? Don’t assume! Ask.
Renter’s insurance: Often required.
Move-in fees: Application, admin, pet deposits.
Moving expenses: Don’t forget trucks, packing, and setup costs.
Always budget for these extras when you’re figuring out what to look for in your first apartment lease.
3. Document EVERYTHING Before and After
Before moving in, take photos and videos of every corner—scratches, stains, dents, everything.
Save them with timestamps for proof.
Do the same when moving out to protect your security deposit.
This is one of the most important what to look for in your first apartment lease tips, always have documentation in case of disputes.
When I moved into my first apartment during college, I thought I scored a great deal. It was a small place right next to campus—perfect for commuting. The landlord kept talking about how she had “just remodeled” and how the design was “too nice for college kids.” My roommates and I felt a bit uneasy, but we signed the lease anyway because the rent was affordable and the location was unbeatable.
Big mistake!
Over the next year, we realized we should’ve trusted our gut. Whenever something broke, like the sink or heater, she’d tell us to “figure it out ourselves” because she didn’t want to bother her handyman. Mind you, we were college girls with no idea how to do repairs, and we had agreed before signing the lease that we wouldn’t handle any fixes.
When we moved out after just one year, our landlord nitpicked minor scuffs, most of which were there when we moved in, and claimed we had “damaged the paint.” She tried to keep our full security deposit to repaint the apartment, even though it was just normal wear and tear, which isn’t legal in California. Luckily, we had some photos and a video showing the walls were still in good condition. With help from our parents, we pushed back and told her we would go to court if needed. She eventually backed off, but only after a lot of stress, back and forth, and fighting to get our deposit returned.
Looking back, if we had listened to our gut and passed on that place, we would’ve saved ourselves a lot of stress even if it meant paying a little more elsewhere. So, remember: You’re not just a tenant. This is your home. The landlord needs to be the right fit for you too.
5. Evaluate the Landlord Like They’re Evaluating You
Here’s a hidden truth: Landlords are scoping you out, but you should be doing the same to them.
Ask yourself:
Are they responsive to questions?
Do they seem professional and respectful?
How do they handle repairs and emergencies?
Are they upfront about costs?
A good landlord can make your life easier. A bad one, like mine, can turn a dream apartment into a nightmare. This is a key part of what to look for in your first apartment lease that most people overlook.
6. Understand Policies on Repairs, Guests, and Roommates
Ask questions like:
Who’s responsible for repairs? Are there 24/7 contacts for emergencies?
Are guests allowed overnight or for extended stays?
Can you add a roommate or sublet?
These details are often buried in the lease, what to look for in your first apartment lease includes knowing the rules upfront.
7. Check for Hidden Fees and Renewal Terms
Look for:
Application fees
Parking costs
Admin charges
Renewal policies and potential rent hikes
These can add up quickly, so factor them in when deciding what to look for in your first apartment lease.
8. Inspect the Apartment Thoroughly
Test everything before moving in:
Turn on all appliances: stove, fridge, microwave, dishwasher.
Check for mold and water damage: Look under sinks, around windows, and in bathrooms for any signs of water leaks, mold, or musty smells.
Check fire safety features: Look for smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems. Confirm they’re in working order.
Check the water pressure, toilets, sinks, and showers.
Test light switches and outlets.
Check locks and doors.
Look for any signs of pests.
Go ahead and turn on everything and test them all out before moving in.
Remember: document, document, document! Take photos and videos, and email the landlord and yourself noting any issues so you both have records.
This is a crucial part of what to look for in your first apartment lease that protects you later.
9. Ask About Pest Control and Maintenance Schedules
Find out if there are regular pest inspections, and how maintenance requests are handled. A landlord who cuts corners on these is a red flag.
10. Check for Cell Service and Internet Options:
Test your phone in the apartment, and ask what internet providers are available. Poor signal or limited options could be a deal breaker!
11. Always Keep a Paper Trail
Save:
A signed copy of your lease
Receipts for rent payments and deposits
Emails and texts with your landlord
If a problem comes up, having records will save you a lot of headaches. This is a top tip for what to look for in your first apartment lease, documentation is your best protection.
Additional Tips for First-Time Renters:
Understand “Wear and Tear” vs. Damage:
Normal wear and tear (like minor scuffs on walls or faded carpet) shouldn’t cost you your deposit. Damage (like holes in the wall or broken fixtures) is different. Ask the landlord what they consider “damage.”
Know the Pet Policy (Even If You Don’t Have Pets Yet):
If you plan to get a pet later, make sure the lease allows it and understand any fees, deposits, or restrictions (like breed or size limits).
Find Out About HOA or Community Rules:
Some apartments are part of an HOA or community association with extra rules, like quiet hours, holiday decoration restrictions, or shared space guidelines. Ask if this applies to your unit.
Review Access Rules:
Ask when and how the landlord can enter your unit (e.g., notice requirements for maintenance or inspections). California law, for example, requires 24-hour written notice.
Final Thoughts
Your first apartment is more than just four walls—it’s the place where you’ll build memories, learn, and grow. But getting it right means paying attention to what to look for in your first apartment lease. Trust your gut, document everything, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Thanks for being here, and hope you learned something!
On your side, Mrs. Money Sidekick
P.S. Liked this post? Check out other starting out articles and our other articles related to apartments.
