Selecting a Chicago apartment isn’t as easy as it sounds. With so many neighborhoods, styles of apartments and amenities to choose from, making the final choice can be darn near impossible. There are a number of questions you can ask a potential landlord, however, that can assist in narrowing down the choices.
These 15 questions can help guide you in the decision-making process and help you select the best Chicago apartment to fit your lifestyle:
1. Does the apartment come with pest control? If you don’t like bugs, this one will matter.
2. What type of security is available? This might not seem like a big deal, but some people prefer in-apartment security systems, gates and other amenities.
3. What is the grace policy on rent? Chances are this will never apply to you, but if you have to be late, it’s nice to know how much wiggle room you have.
4. What type of heating system is in place? If you have to pay the electric, this can be a big deal.
5. What lease terms do you have? This can be important if you only plan to stay in Chicago for a short while or want to try an apartment on for size.
6. Does the complex have an exercise room?
7. How much decorating am I allowed to do inside the apartment? If you can’t stand plain, white walls, this is a big question to ask. Chances are you’ll be able to paint if you put the colors back to white when you leave, but it pays to ask.
8. Is there a pool?
9. How frequently are the rents raised? For example, when was the last time the standard rates were raised?
10. What is the policy for breaking a lease, if necessary? This generally isn’t an issue, but it’s good to know what to expect if the need arises.
11. Are there designated parking spaces for residents? This can help you avoid issues when you come home at night. There’s nothing worse than having to hike across your own apartment complex in the snow because spaces aren’t marked out.
12. Is it feasible to add someone to a lease down the road? If you have a significant other who might move in at some point, this is a good question to ask about your apartment lease.
13. Are pets allowed? If you want a cat or a dog or already have one, be sure to ask the apartment manager this question. You will also want to know about pet deposits.
14. How close is the nearest … school, store, hospital? Finding out where your potential Chicago apartment is in regard to major services can be important for some. If you have young children, it can be particularly important.
15. Would (or do) you live here? This is a great question to ask an apartment manager. The response can tell you a lot about a complex before you sign an apartment lease.
Selecting the perfect Chicago apartment isn’t always easy. Asking the right questions can narrow down the choices.
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