Tips for Tenants

• Smarter Tenant Tip #1:

  Did you know that Landlords annually have to pay interest on your security deposit? Check with the state banking commission for the rate of interest. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #2:

  Set your rental priorities before you start looking. The rent, desire location, number of bedrooms and whether you want to keep a pet. This will help focus your search. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #3:

  Be prepared. Get a copy of your credit report, check it for accuracy (press for corrections if necessary) before your prospective landlord lays his eyes on it. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #4:

  Always inspect the rental unit before you sign a lease or rental agreement. Think carefully before signing-off on a clause that states that the rental is in fine shape. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #5:

  Before you move out, find out what exactly the landlord expects in the way of cleaning. If you get no answer, announce a cleaning plan of your own. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #6:

  It's common for landlords to limit overnight guests, such as allowing a guest for no more than ten days in any six-month period with written approval required for longer stays. More

  Smarter Tenant Tip #7:

  Landlords typically want all adults (18 years of age and older) who will live in the rental unit, including both members of a couple, to sign the lease or rental agreement. More

Tips for Landlords

• Smarter Landlord Tip #1:

  When you are ready to find a tenant for your vacancy, you must select a tenant with whom you can maintain a professional relationship throughout the tenancy. More

  Smarter Landlord Tip #2:

  Application fees are common practice today. If you feel uncomfortable about this, you may offer to refund the fee only if the applicant becomes your next tenant. More

  Smarter Landlord Tip #3:

  If you are renting a property that was built before 1978, you are required to provide a disclosure notice and booklet from the EPA regarding lead and the hazards of lead. More

  Smarter Landlord Tip #4:

  A month-by-month lease can be written or oral. Rent is payable monthly and the lease can be changed or ended by either the landlord or the tenant after giving some notice. More

  Smarter Landlord Tip #5:

  Whenever you advertise a rental, you are subject to the fair housing laws which state that you cannot refuse to show a rental nor can you refuse to rent to someone. More