First Time Renter? Avoid these 7 Deadly Sins!

One of life's big milestones: The First Apartment. 

It's a symbol of young adult life, of freedom from your parents, of complete reign over what and when you eat for dinner! But with this beacon of independence comes a list of things to be weary of. Don't be blinded by the excitement of the experience! Here are the 7 Deadly Sins of First Time Renters.

1. Underestimating the Cost
• How much can you afford to spend on housing?
• Would you need a roommate or two? 
• Start up costs!
• application fee
• security deposit 
• first month's rent
• deposit for electricity 
• deposit for gas
• cable and/or telephone fees
• parking space fee
• Monthly bills (gas, electricity, water, garbage)
• Set up a budget to keep it all in check! 
2. Not Having Your Priorities Straight
• Separate your wants from your needs
• Know your deal breakers 
• Understand that your first apartment won't be perfect 
• Know what to consider for a first apartment 
3. Not Seeing the Apartment before Moving In
• Visualize how your furniture will fit 
• Estimate if your couch can fit through the door way 
• Bring a measuring tape!
• Turn faucets/flush toilets
• Check light switches
• Check appliances 
• Look at surrounding area (sights, smells, sounds)
• Check for damage 
• Make a list of pre-moving in dings and scratches to hand to your landlord 
4. Failing to Read the Lease
• Read it all the way through (regardless of how boring it is!) 
• Underline what you don't understand
• Keep an eye out for penalities
• Don't be afraid to ask questions
5. Not Asking About Utilities or Forgetting to Turn them On
• Ask what utilities you are specifically required to pay/turn on
• Find out what you'll have to take care of yourself
• Know who to call and call them at least one week before moving in
6. Going Without Renter's Insurance 
• Very worthwhile in case of fire ect. 
• Make a tally of valuable items in your apartment (clothes, tv, computer) 
• Make sure you're covered 
7. Forgetting Basic Home Items
• Details, details, details
• Seating, Bedding, Dressers
• Find an apartment checklist to help you out