Mechele Agbayani Mills

It is the newfound freedom of leaving home for college that is one of the most thrilling in the life of a young person. However, finding the new home away from home can quickly turn that excitement into agony. In 2017, Better Business Bureau had more than 6,700 complaints and more than 501,000 inquiries on apartment complexes. The BBB warns consumer to take precautions to find a reputable apartment complex with a reliable landlord.

When looking for a new apartment, it’s important to do your homework to make sure that your first apartment experience is a good one.

The BBB offers the following tips when searching for an apartment to rent.

Determine your needs. Before you start hunting, it’s important to determine what amenities are a necessity and what your budget will be. Decide how important location is and how much space is needed. If you live with pets, make sure they are welcomed and find out if there are additional fees involved.

Research the apartment complex, rental agency or real estate agent. Before you hire an agent or view the property, go to bbb.org for the business profile. You can read complaints and verified customer reviews regarding the business.

Visit the apartment complex. Do not base your decision solely on the photos of the apartment online; they can be deceiving. Be sure to visit the apartment complex before sending in your deposit. When walking through the actual apartment, inspect all doors, locks, windows, toilets and faucets and make sure all appliances are working properly. Check out all the amenities that were listed online and make sure they are up to your standards.

Take note of the apartment’s condition. Before signing the lease, provide the landlord with a list of damages and repairs you discovered while inspecting the apartment. Be sure the landlord signs the maintenance list, acknowledging that the damages and repairs existed before you moved in. This list will protect you from being liable for the damages from previous tenants. Check out all the amenities that were listed online and make sure they are up to your standards.

Understand the lease. Be sure to understand maintenance repairs you’re responsible for and what the apartment complex/renters will cover. Be sure to ask about security deposits and when your payments are due. Be aware of the consequences if payments are late. Ask how repair requests will be handled and the time frame to resolve them. Make sure to always keep a copy of the signed lease in a safe place.

For more tips on how to be a savvy consumer, go to bbb.org. To report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices, please call BBB at 903-581-5704 or use BBB ScamTracker.