San Diego Apartments

San Diego Real Estate Tweets

Renters Tips: Apartments

• Landlords can’t reject an application based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, physical disability, familial status or mental disability. Certain places also prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or marital status.
• A tenant has the right to "habitable premises" which means the living conditions should be safe.

• The right to privacy is also protected, and unless there is an emergency, the landlord should give a tenant advance notice if they need to enter the apartment.

• Know what you are getting. Does the policy cover replacement cost or actual cash value? Replacement cost is a better way to go if possible; it covers the cost of the goods today. Actual cash value only covers what the product would be worth right now.
• Expensive items may require a rider. If you have an engagement ring that has a high cash value or an antique that is worth a good deal, make sure you tell your insurance company. Additional coverage may be needed.
• Make sure you know your deductible so you are aware of what costs you would have to come up with out of your own pocket.
• Get the coverage you need. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, be sure that is something you are covered for.
• Look for a multi-policy discount. Some places will give you a break on insurance costs if you have both a renters and automobile insurance policy through their company.

• If you suspect you may need to end a lease early, see if the landlord would be willing to set you up with a shorter-term rental or a month-to-month lease. You can also look into an early release clause and see if that might be a solution.
• Let your landlord know as soon as possible about the need to move and see if they are willing to discuss options with you. Remember, the goal isn't just to get out of the lease, but to avoid leaving on bad terms or getting a mark on your credit history.
• Breaking a lease puts your landlord in a bad position. Try to be conscious of what you can do to make it easier. Subletting the property may be an option, but make sure you understand your responsibilities in this situation before agreeing to it.

• A good guideline is to start looking at apartments a month or two in advance to be on the safe side.
• Listen carefully to what people are telling you and translate what it means. "Cozy" might mean warm and comfortable, but it can also mean small.
• Don't feel you have to take an apartment right away just because someone mentions that "other people are interested" or "it's in a hot area." Take your time deciding if a place is the right one for you.
• Does something about the landlord bother you? Do you feel like the apartment has all the things you wanted, but just aren't sold on calling it home? Listen to your gut feeling on things -- there may be a reason you are feeling the way you are.