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9 Essential Questions to Ask Your Dallas Landlord Before You Move In

Dallas Property Manager Showing a Rental PropertyA Dallas single-family rental home could be exactly what you’re searching for if you’re seeking a new place to call home. There are a few key things you should ask your landlord before signing the lease. Before moving into a rental home, this article will explain the most crucial questions to consider. This will ensure that you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.

1. Are there any deposits or non-refundable fees required, and what are they for?

While some landlords may require a security deposit, others may impose a nonrefundable cleaning fee. Ensure you inquire about any deposits or costs so you can budget accordingly.

2. What is included in the monthly rent (e.g., water, electricity, internet)?

There are some landlords that do not include utilities in the monthly rent while others do. The cost of utilities can dramatically increase the expense of living in a rental, so be careful to ask who is responsible to pay for what. Request an estimate for all utilities based on the prior tenant’s consumption.

3. How often is the rent due, and when is a late fee assessed?

Ask when the rent is due and what the consequences are if you are late. The majority of Dallas property managers expect rent to be paid on the first of the month, however, some may give a few days leeway before collecting a late fee. Make certain to inquire about this so that you can plan ahead.

4. What payment methods does the landlord accept?

Some landlords only accept checks, while others may allow payments through the internet. It is helpful to know which payment methods your landlord will accept so that you can determine if they will work for you. Some tenants may not want to deal with the trouble of paying in person or having their landlord come to their door every month to collect rent. When rent is not paid online, some landlords require a fee for processing the payment. In any case, it is essential to ask this question in order to organize your monthly rent payment.

5. Are there any restrictions on who can live on the property or what they can do (e.g., no pets)?

Some landlords have rules about who can live in their rental units. They may, for example, only accept visitors for a particular number of days. Others may not allow any pets. Before you move, inquire about these limits to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

6. How often does the landlord come around to check on things, and what happens if something needs repairs/fixes?

It’s crucial to know how frequently your landlord will visit. Some landlords inspect their premises monthly, while others only come when something needs to be corrected. Ensure you inquire about this so you understand what to expect. Also, inquire about how to submit repair and maintenance issues, as well as the time it will take to resolve them.

7. What is the lease term, and are there any penalties for breaking it early?

Because breaking a lease might be costly, you should always know the duration of your lease prior to moving in. If you are unable to commit to a long-term lease, you should consider requesting alternatives. Some landlords offer shorter leases at a slightly increased rent. If you must terminate your lease, find out what the consequences are. The majority of landlords will demand a fee for early lease termination, which is sometimes equal to the amount of rent you would have paid for the duration of the lease.

8. Which furnishings and appliances are included?

There are some landlords which supply furnishings or appliances and some who do not. If you are moving into an unfurnished property, you will need to include the cost of furniture. Ask about this before you move in so you can budget accordingly.

9. Would the landlord live there?

This is a crucial question because it might provide you with information about what to expect. If the landlord states that they would live there, they are likely to be a more hands-on and attentive landlord. Ask for an explanation if they answer no. If they are unwilling to explain, it may indicate that things are not quite as they appear.

 

Before moving into a rental home, ask these questions to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Examining what Real Property Management Legend has to offer is another wise strategy to find the right rental house. Our team of professionals will answer all of your questions and help you feel confident in your choice of a rental home. Browse our listings today!

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