You've been looking around for a certain house in a certain area. Location, square footage, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms, and the type of yard all meet your specific needs. Finally, you believe you've found the perfect match. There are a few things to check out before making the big commitment of signing on the dotted line. 1) What is the length of the lease? Is this a place you plan to live in for a long time or just as temporary living quarters? Different options usually include a month-to-month arrangement, a six month lease agreement or a one year lease. Quite often the shorter amounts of time are offered at a higher monthly rate, but it might be worth the extra money for more flexibility if there is a possibility of needing to move again soon. 2) What amount of security deposit is required and what are the stipulations for getting it back? This deposit usually covers breakage or damages that are not considered normal wear and tear. Be sure to carefully inspect the property and record any existing flaws, such as dented cabinets, a stain on the carpet, a broken curtain rod, etc. Any damage that is found should be documented in writing so that you won't be charged for it when you move out. 3) Do you have pets? You will need to find out if they are allowed and if so, what types. Some rental houses allow dogs, for example, but they must be under a certain weight. There is often a separate security deposit that will be required that is often termed a pet deposit. 4) Is there a clause in the agreement to release you from the timeframe agreed upon in case of an emergency, such as unexpected job relocation? It is helpful to know this in advance so that you can plan appropriately. Some landlords will let you sublet the space. Some will make you pay for the entire length of the lease, whether you move or not. Some will allow you to pay a “break the lease” penalty fee. Check the language in your agreement carefully. 5) Make sure the monthly rental amount and the date that it is due is spelled out in black and white in your contract. There should also be language which reflects whether there is any grace period for late payments and what the cost of late charges will be, should they ever occur. 6) If you are dealing with an individual landlord owner rather than a property management company, you may want to check the county records to assure that this is indeed the property owner whom you are turning large sums of money over to. There have been cases where prospective tenants have been victimized by giving cash to a person who didn't have the right to be leasing out the property at all. When all of your questions have been answered satisfactorily, then go ahead and sign on the dotted line and start packing! In Baton Rouge, real estate agency helps you to familiarize yourself with the buying or selling process and get organized while buying any property. To know more, visit http://www.realestatelouisiana.com
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