Choosing the right apartment

Choosing the right apartment is a big decision—bigger than deciding whether pineapple belongs on pizza.

(Answer: It depends, just like apartments!)

To help you avoid costly mistakes, here are 10 essential questions to ask on showing day to make sure the unit is right for you.

1. What Happens If I Change My Mind After Submitting the Application?

Life happens, and sometimes you need to backtrack. Ask about the refund policy and potential fees:

• How long will it take to refund my deposit? (Typical timeline: 5–10 business days.)

• Are there any cancellation fees if I back out after submitting my application?

• If I cancel just before my lease starts, will the landlord keep my last month’s rent deposit?

Pro Tip:
Changing your mind can come with financial consequences, so make sure you're 100% sure before you hit "submit."

2. Are Pets Allowed, and Are There Any Restrictions?

If you have a furry friend (or plan to get one), check the building’s pet policy:

• Are pets allowed, and if so, are there restrictions on breed or size?

• Is there a pet deposit or monthly pet fee?

• Are there designated pet areas or rules for walking pets on the property?

Humorous Take:
Your cat may think they own the world, but the landlord might have different ideas.

3. Is Smoking Allowed in the Unit or Building?

Even if you don’t smoke, this is an important question. Smoking policies can affect the air quality, smell, and even your neighbors.

• Is smoking allowed in the unit, on balconies, or in common areas?

• Does the policy include vaping or other forms of smoking?

Pro Tip:
A smoke-free building can make a huge difference for your health and comfort, even if you’re not a smoker.

4. How Is Parking Handled for Extra Cars?

If you have multiple vehicles, parking can quickly become a headache.

• Is there parking available for a second or third car?

• What are the costs for additional parking spaces?

• Are parking spaces assigned, or is it first-come, first-served?

Humorous Take:
Your third car might be jealous if it has to sleep on the street.

5. What’s Included in the Rent?

Before you fall in love with the unit, make sure the rent fits your budget after factoring in utilities and amenities.

• Are utilities like water, heat, and electricity included?

• Are there extra fees for amenities (e.g., gym, pool, laundry)?

• Is internet or cable provided, or will I need to arrange that separately?

Pro Tip:
A "cheap" rent might not be so cheap if nothing is included.

6. How Are Maintenance Requests Handled?

Nothing ruins a dream apartment faster than slow maintenance.

• How do I submit maintenance requests?

• What’s the average response time for repairs?

• Is there an emergency maintenance line for after-hours issues?

Humorous Take:
You don’t want to wait a week for a broken fridge to be fixed—it’s a bad time for an accidental juice cleanse.

7. What Are the Lease Terms?

Before signing, make sure you understand all the details:

• How long is the lease term? (12 months, 6 months, month-to-month?)

• Is there a penalty for breaking the lease early?

• Are there any automatic renewal clauses?

Pro Tip:
Read the fine print. Surprises are great for birthdays, not leases.

8. What Are the Rules for Decorating or Making Changes?

If you love personalizing your space, find out how much flexibility you have:

• Can I paint the walls or hang shelves?

• Are there rules about window treatments or flooring changes?

• Will I need to restore the unit to its original condition when I move out?

Humorous Take:
Your Pinterest dreams might need to take a backseat if the landlord says no to bold wallpaper.

9. How Do I Transfer Utilities and Set Up Services?

Make your moving process smoother by understanding the setup:

• Which utilities will I need to set up, and are there recommended providers?

• How much time do I have before the lease starts to transfer utilities?

• Are there any bulk deals for services like internet or cable?

Pro Tip:
The last thing you want on move-in day is to unpack in the dark because the electricity wasn’t transferred.

10. What’s the Neighborhood Like?

The apartment is just one piece of the puzzle—make sure the area fits your lifestyle:

• Are there nearby grocery stores, schools, or public transportation?

• What’s the noise level like during the day and at night?

• Are there any neighborhood safety concerns?

Humorous Take:
If the “local nightlife” means your upstairs neighbor tap-dancing at midnight, you’ll want to know in advance.

Final Thought: Ask Now, Avoid Surprises Later

Asking the right questions before submitting your application can save you time, money, and stress. Think of it as your pre-lease “investigation” to ensure the unit fits your needs and lifestyle. After all, moving is a big commitment—just like pineapple on pizza.