...whether it's choosing an apartment or trailer to live in while attending school, it's an important decision. In fact, it may be one of the most important decisions you will make. Tommy, that's me, suggests you ask the following questions before deciding where you want to live. While no place may be completely perfect, the more questions that are answered with a yes, the more likely you will be able to reduce the opportunities for you to be a target of burglary or some other problem posed by some rental properties.
To help you get started, the first question you should ask a landlord is if the property you are looking at is zoned properly for your use. Remember, many properties are zoned for no more than two non-related people, and both the landlord and tenant are responsible for abiding by the zoning laws.
Is the building address clearly visible with at least 3-inch numbers
to help emergency services find the residence if you need them?
Do each of the exterior doors appear to be structurally sound and securely anchored?
Does the front door have a 1-inch deadbolt lock?
If there is a sliding glass door, can the sliding panel be secured so that it cannot be taken out of its track?
Is there adequate parking?
If there is a parking lot, is it well lit? A dark lot is a magnet for crime. It might be a good idea to go by the apartment building at night and see for yourself.
How far is it from where you will park to your door? for security, you do not want to walk say, 300 feet to your door, especially at night.
Is the exterior and each entrance lit with at least a 40 watt light?
If this is a multi-unit dwelling, are hallways and stairways well lit?
Are walls and ceilings in good repair and free from loose or flaking plaster or peeling paint? Are ceilings free from water stains? (This may be an indication that the roof leaks.)
Are the floors sound and in good repair?
Do all light fixtures operate properly?
Does wiring appear to show no signs of fraying and are there no unconnected or bare wires exposed?
Is the heating and cooling system capable of heating or cooling all rooms (duct work to all rooms).
Did you check for any unusual odors, especially near the furnace, water heater or other appliances which might signal a hazardous condition?
Do all drains (including the tub or shower) flow freely and without leaking? (Again look for water stained ceilings.)
Can entrances be clearly observed from the street or other public areas by neighbors, the police, or other passers by?
Is there a safe approach to the residence where the landscaping or porch do not offer a hiding place for a possible attacker?
Print this page. Take these questions with you. If you get a negative answer to more than three questions, you need to think about whether or not you want to rent at that property. Then, come to G & R Property Management, where we believe you will get a high score on every unit!
Tommy's views as a Landlord
Does the landlord require a credit check & rental application? If he does not, what does that say about who your neighbors could be. You want your neighbors as well as yourself to have passed a credit check and rental application for your own safety and quiet enjoyment.
You should talk to other tenants who are renting the property and may be able to alert you to potential problems. They can be a wealth of information. If they won't take time to talk to you, that let's you know how friendly you neighbors will be.
Talk to the landlord about his or her property as well as other landlords and other properties, they should take the time necessary to make you feel comfortable about your rental decision. If they don't have time to talk to you now, they won't have time to talk to you when you need them.
Does the rental agency actually care who rents their properties?
Do they allow freshman to live with them even though it is
against SIU housing rules? Do you want to be living in a property
that allows freshman?
What type of management actually run the property? Is it managed by a family orientated group, or by a firm that has a home office states away? Do they care enough about their tenants to actually know you by name or are you once again just another number on their balance sheet.
If you have any doubts about the place you are about to rent check with code enforcement. They are the ones that actually write the tickets for violations, so they can tell you what properties are kept in good condition and what ones are not.
Tommy has been renting to tenants for 41 years and if he does not have what you want in price or atmosphere and he can help you in any way find a place to live he will be happy to refer you to other landlords.
Tommy says good luck and happy renting. We hope these tips have helped you in your search for your next years housing.
For more information, or to meet one of the G & R Property Management Family
just contact us at:
G & R Property Management
851 E. Grand Street, Carbondale, IL
(618)549-4713
E-mail
Stop by for a visit,
We'd love for you to join our family.
The home of the happy tenants!
