When you first qualify for affordable housingIn general, housing for which the occupant(s) is/are paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Please note that some jurisdictions may define af... More, it can feel like a great relief — like a burden has been lifted from your shoulders. Indeed, it should feel that way — but it’s only the beginning of the process. Now that you’ve qualified, what should you be looking for when selecting an apartment, and how do you live comfortably once you move in? Here are five tips for first-time affordable housingIn general, housing for which the occupant(s) is/are paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Please note that some jurisdictions may define af... More renters to help you take the next steps.
1. Do a thorough walk-through of any unit before finalizing the lease.
When you are looking for affordable housingIn general, housing for which the occupant(s) is/are paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Please note that some jurisdictions may define af... More, ask to do a careful walk-through of the actual unit where you’ll be living — not just a model apartment. Pay careful attention to the condition of the unit. Is it clean? Are there signs of roaches or rodents? Does it need paint? Use your ears, as well — do you hear noisy neighbors? If you’re viewing a unit before it’s ready to move in, your landlord should tell you about any repairs/cleanings that will be made. If so, do a second walk-through before move-in to make sure those things were done. You also want to make note (including pictures) of any minor damage that exists in the unit before you move in, and point them out to the landlord.
The walk-through is very important for two reasons: First, this is where you will be living, and you don’t want any unwanted surprises. Second, you don’t want any pre-existing damaged to be charged against your security depositOlympia Management requires a security deposit fee before a tenant is allowed to move in. Please Note: The Security Deposit amount is listed at the bottom of the individual property’s page under the... More when you eventually move out.
2. Read your lease carefully.
Your leaseA written agreement between an owner and a family for the leasing of a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling unit to the family. More is an official agreement between you and the landlord. It tells you the landlord’s responsibilities as well as your rights and responsibilities, and it lays out the rules of living in that space. Make sure you know the rules about late fees, noise, periodic inspections, petsAll Olympia Management properties have a no pet policy. Please Note: It is important for you as the renter to contact the property manager regarding restrictions on pets. More, subletting, taking on roommates, etc. before signing, and be sure you’re okay with those terms. Failure to abide by those rules can jeopardize your leaseA written agreement between an owner and a family for the leasing of a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling unit to the family. More.
3. Ask questions.
If there is anything that you don’t understand about the leaseA written agreement between an owner and a family for the leasing of a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling unit to the family. More, the rules, maintenance issues or anything else about the unit — don’t be afraid to ask the management company or landlord. Likewise, if you plan to make any changes to your living situation, like take on a pet or a roommate, be sure to ask management how that should work. Open communication is key to good tenant-landlord relationships, and a landlord would rather you ask than assume incorrectly.
4. Make a budget and stick to it.
Don’t assume that because you qualified for a lower rent, that means you’ll automatically have no trouble paying it. You qualify for a certain rent level based on your financial situation, but that’s still based on an assumption of what is affordable for you. You can still face late fees and even evictionThe dispossession of the tenant from the leased unit as a result of the termination of tenancy, including a termination prior to the end of a lease term. More for non-payment of rent, no matter how low the rent is. Take advantage of this affordable rent and increase your peace of mind by making a budget and staying with it.
5. Get renter’s insurance.
The structure of your apartment is covered under your landlord’s insurance, but your belongings are not. Renter’s insurance usually costs only a few dollars per month, and it can save you from financial ruin in the event of theft or natural disaster. (Many landlords require you to have renter’s insurance, anyway.)
Olympia ManagementOlympia Management, Inc. exists to meet the needs of the affordable housing community by providing top-quality living conditions, excellent management, compassionate interaction with tenants, and cons... More is dedicated to providing clean, comfortable, affordable housingIn general, housing for which the occupant(s) is/are paying no more than 30 percent of his or her income for gross housing costs, including utilities. Please note that some jurisdictions may define af... More for qualified individuals and families throughout the Southeast. For more information, call us 256-894-2382.