So since we do go to school in New York City a lot of students get apartments instead of dorming, to feel a little more at home. But there are a lot of things everyone forgets in all the excitement.
The absolute number one thing you must know is what is included in your lease. Will cable be provided? Is water and heating included? How long is your lease? Maybe you can even get a better price if you sign the lease for a longer period of time.
So number one: Know the people you will be living with! you need them to be responsible, they need to pay the rent on time and someone who wont back out on you causing you to break the lease. Be aware of things that could go wrong, your security deposit could be used to fix anything you guys break.
Know your rights. Whenever you get an apartment , look into the handbook that each state has with the rights you are entitled to. Say something is broken like your heat , do they fix it or do you? how long are they aloud to go without fixing it, ect.
Just in case you have to leave, before packing up ask about what happens if you do in fact break your lease. This actually just happened to one of my good friends at school and it didn’t end nicely. Her roommate was sketchy to begin with , and I warned her to be careful.
Lastly don’t be afraid to ask questions, a lease is a legal contract and you are accountable for anything that happens.
XOXO,
Happy hunting,
Kailee