Renter’s Advice and Resources

Every single time you want to rent a new apartment, condo, or house, you’re going to have to fork over quite a bit of money — including a hefty security deposit. In case you didn’t know, a security deposit isn’t just a random fee that’s required to rent an apartment. In reality, it’s given to […]

Whether you’re relocating because of a new job or simply because you want a bigger apartment, moving out is going to require a lot of planning, energy, and, unfortunately, money on your part. When it’s finally time for you to pack up your things, you’ll want to refer to this comprehensive moving checklist to make […]

No matter where you live or how careful you are, you’re bound to encounter property damage eventually. As a tenant, what damages will you have to pay for? The answer depends on your exact situation, but there are a few things everybody should know about dealing with dinged apartments: Wear and Tear As a tenant, […]

  If you feel slightly overwhelmed when it comes time to sign on the dotted line at lease renewal time, or if you’re considering renting a new apartment and don’t know what to ask, you’re not alone! There’s nothing wrong with ascertaining that you’re on the same page as the landlord or rental agent about […]

By Anthony Lolli Security deposits. Every sitcom set in an apartment has made a joke about them at some point. (“Great, there goes my security deposit!” Cue laugh track.) But renters know that security deposits are no laughing matter. They add a significant amount to your initial move-in costs, and an equally significant amount of […]

A rental property is a great investment, and can be a good source of income. As a landlord you can expect some signs of wear and tear. However, it is important to distinguish this normal wear and tear from considerable damage, which will need repairs. In cases of actual damage, the security deposit paid by […]

Security deposits are used to cover excessive damage done by a renter. They’re kept as a means if insurance, so the renter can’t leave the rental property without paying for damages. To Protect Against Damages Exceeding Expected Wear and Tear Normal wear and tear of the property is anticipated by every landlord, but reckless damage […]

Whether you will receive interest on your security deposit depends on state law and your apartment. If your state requires landlords to pay interest to tenants on paid security deposits and your apartment complex fits within the purview of the law, you will likely receive interest on your security deposit within a few weeks after […]

Renting laws, both state and federal, can benefit you as a tenant. Some laws protect you against being thrown out on the streets with no warning or for no good reason. Other laws make it financially possible for you to move into an apartment in first place. It’s important to know basic tenant rights before […]