Property Management – West Hills

Are you planning to rent a home or apartment? Hold up. Before signing a lease, make sure you’re getting everything you need.

A lease is a binding contract and once you sign it, you’re stuck for the entire length of the rental term. Don’t hesitate to ask your potential landlord a few questions to make sure you’re both on the same page. Here are some suggestions:

1. Will you negotiate?

Negotiation may not be the first thing you think of with a rental agreement, but it’s something you should consider. You may be able to negotiate a reduction in rent or a change to the terms of the lease. You can base this negotiation on preexisting damage (such as stained carpeting or broken tiles). However, approach the negotiation politely and professionally.

2. Are there any additional costs?

Find out exactly what is included in your monthly rent. Some leases include basic utilities, such as heat, hot water and gas. Find out which utilities are included and the approximate cost for services that aren’t included in the rent. Additionally, some companies charge extra for parking fees, on-site gyms and pools. Don’t assume that any of these services are included in your rent.

3. What is the pet policy?

Most rental properties have strict regulations about pets. Some have rules against specific types or numbers of pets, including breeds and weight limits. Others restrict you from having a dog or cat, but will allow fish or birds. Even if you don’t have a pet, ask about the pet policies.

4. What are the terms of renewal?

Whether you’re renting on a month-to-month basis or plan to sign up for a yearly rental, make sure you understand the terms of renewal. The renewal process can be pretty daunting. Some leases include automatic renewals that will allow you to renew your lease at the end of the term. These typically require you to notify your landlord if you do not intend to renew. Find out how much notice you need to give if you decide to move. Additionally, some rental agreements will also allow you to continue renting on a month-to-month basis, so if you’re not sure you want to renew your lease for an entire year, you can still stay on for a few months. Make sure you understand these terms before you sign the lease.

5. How can I terminate?

You never know when an unexpected event could cause you to need to move before the lease is up. You may lose your entire security deposit or be forced to pay a month’s rent if you break your lease early. Your landlord may even charge you a portion (or the entire) rent until your lease expires or another tenant is found. Make sure you understand these terms.

6. Can I get that in writing?

Make sure that your landlord puts all of your negotiations and revisions to the lease in writing. You and your landlord may get along, but it doesn’t mean that anything you agree to verbally will hold up in court. Protect yourself and get everything in writing before you sign. If your landlord refuses to revise to the contract, reconsider signing. Additionally, if you don’t understand something in the lease, ask for clarification or bring the lease to an attorney.

Renting a home or apartment is a huge undertaking even if it’s just for one year. Take the time to fully understand the terms of your lease before signing on the dotted line.

by Rebecca Desfosse, Angie’s List contributor

Carnahan Property Management services Woodland Hills,West Hills, Calabasas, Canoga Park, Tarzana, Reseda,Porter Ranch, Topanga, Encino, Northridge, Van Nuys,North Hills,Chatsworth, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, North Hollywood, West Hollywood, San Fernando Valley, Granada Hills, Mission Hills, Simi Valley, West Lake Village, Agoura,Toluca Lake, Valley Village, Burbank. Call us at (818) 884-1500 and check if we can serve your area.