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Manhattan Apartment Rental 101 - - Apartment Rental Checklist

What You Need to Know Before You Sign A Lease

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The Building and the Neighborhood

  • Are pets allowed? If you have a pet, make sure there are no restrictions.

  • How close is public transportation? Calculate how easy it would be to get to work or other frequent destinations. If your commute will be long and complicated, you better love that apartment a LOT.

  • Is the neighborhood safe? Will you feel comfortable walking home alone at night?

  • Is there a laundry room in the building or nearby?

  • Is there outdoor space available (roof, garden, terrace)?

  • Does the neighborhood provide all of the daily conveniences within easy access?Locate the closest grocery stores, gyms, dry cleaners, pharmacies, banks, etc.

  • Is there a live-in superintendent? Does he maintain the building well and respond quickly when repairs are needed? Ask a current resident if possible (just corner someone in the lobby or elevator).

  • Is there a doorman? What type of security is offered (i.e. security cameras, number and strength of locks, etc.)

  • Is the building managed responsibly? Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure there are no complaints against building management.

  • Is the building in good repair? Look for signs of disrepair or shabbiness in the public spaces.

  • If you have a car, is there convenient parking nearby?

  • Do you like the feel of the neighborhood? Do you feel comfortable there?

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