Renter News
Landlords will generally conduct credit screening as part of the process of evaluating potential renters. While everyone should know, in general terms, what their credit report will look like, it remains wise to check before the landlord does. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumers can check their own credit report for free once every… Read more >>
One common mistake among new renters, according to MSN Real Estate, is forgetting to ask about or activate utilities. Before moving in, new tenants need to make sure they check with the landlord to determine which utilities they are responsible for paying and turning on. Some may provide water service but require renters to arrange… Read more >>
While it may be less complicated than homeownership in some ways, moving to a new rental is still a serious decision. In order to properly search for a new apartment, Empire Realty Group notes renters should begin their search at least two months in advance of when they want to move in.It takes time to… Read more >>
When examining a new apartment, according to MSN Real Estate, tenants should ensure the property is safe and sanitary before signing a rental lease agreement. While landlords and rental property management firms try to care for their units, previous tenants may have been less courteous and careful than they should. For this reason, the source… Read more >>
Whether moving in, moving out or staying put, residents are often concerned about how to handle damage to an apartment. They do not want to be charged for anything they are not responsible for, especially when leaving a property means they will not experience any benefits. Landlords, on the other hand, are in a difficult… Read more >>
The legal standing and rights of renters vary somewhat from state to state and the terms spelled out in different lease documents. Some rights are common to all, however, or at least typically granted. For example, the federal Fair Housing Act forbids landlords from discriminating against a tenant – or prospective tenant – on the… Read more >>
While responsible renters plan ahead and do not sign lease documents until they are prepared to stay in the property for the appropriate length of time, life sometimes produces unexpected circumstances that force people to change plans. A job transfer from one office to another, an ailing family member who needs looking after or something… Read more >>
One common concern among renters is whether or not they'll get their security deposit back. Attorney Janet Portman told MSN Real Estate part of the confusion surrounding the issue stems from state laws which generally say apartments must be returned in the condition they were received except for "normal wear and tear." While the exact… Read more >>
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) places restrictions on how landlords can use consumer reports during resident screening, according to the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection. Consumer reports collect not only credit information, but also data on an individual's lifestyle, character and reputation. This may include rental history and public records such as… Read more >>
Renters looking for a new apartment will likely have to pass a credit screening. Some worry that this means any past financial mistakes will ruin their chances, even if they have been fiscally responsible for years. The truth is that, whether a landlord or property manager examines a prospective tenant's credit report or just his… Read more >>