Hey everyone!

I'm moving out on my own August 1 (hopefully, if everything works out like I want it to) and so I've found some websites with some questions, things to look at on the lease, ways to make sure you get your security deposit back, etc, etc.

Just wanted to see if anyone had some helpful advice for me as to what to look for, any good questions to ask, or any experiences that might help.

Thanks!

Right before you move in, walk through the apartment with your landlord and take pictures of everything. Then do the same thing when you eventually move out. This way the landlord can't hold you responsible for any damages that existed before you moved in.

If the landlord can't or won't walk through with you, then do the walk through yourself, take tons of pictures, make two copies of each, send one set to the landlord by mail (with a cover letter) and keep one set for yourself.

If there are any repairs that need to be made, put it in writing! Don't rely on phone calls or emails. If the landlord makes any kind of promises, put it in writing! Never rely on verbal agreements.

Finally, read through some of the questions and answers here on the Real Estate Law forum to get an idea of the types of problems that tenants have had.

Good luck!

I like Lisa's idea. As a LL I actually do a similar walk through but with a video camera so I can talk and tape everything.