Join the J.C. Hart Team! Click here to see our current job openings.
A J.C. Hart Apartment Community in Indianapolis, IN
 

Stop Making These Common Mistakes When Renting An Apartment In Indianapolis

July 01, 2021

Apartment building exterior

Apartment hunting may appear simple, but many Residents make mistakes when renting an apartment in Indianapolis. They pay too much, forget to investigate the neighborhood, agree to a lease but don’t read it, and fail to snap pictures when moving in. All of these errors can diminish your renting experience. To get the most out of your hunt and find the right apartment for you and your family, avoid these frequent faux pas.
 
Fitness Center in a Indianapolis apartment community.

Ignoring Recurring Costs

A significant deciding factor in your apartment hunt will be your price range. If there’s an apartment that’s approaching the upper limit of your price range, don’t forget to factor in recurring bills. You may discover that a more costly apartment includes in-unit laundry and utilities while you pay for those separately at a less expensive apartment. Individual communities charge differently for reserved parking and pet fees. You might also find that a community with features like a fitness center or pool saves you gym membership costs.

Apartment community in Indianapolis 

Not Researching The Neighborhood

Not many Indianapolis Residents rent an apartment without touring it first, but don’t forget to check out the surrounding area too. To find out more about your neighborhood, drive through at different times and talk to the neighbors. Note traffic volumes, noise levels, and the area’s general hospitality. You might discover that the peaceful neighborhood you see at 2 in the afternoon throws loud parties at night or experiences traffic congestion every day at 5 PM.

Search engines can assist you as well. Do an internet search to learn more about attractions and shopping in that part of Indianapolis, the school district, your new commute, and more.

Rental lease agreement.
 

Signing A Lease Without Understanding The Details

Among the most made mistakes when renting an apartment in Indianapolis is not reading the fine print. Before you sign the lease, read it carefully so that you know what you’re getting. If you feel uncertain about something, look over it with a a lawyer or more experienced friend. A Indianapolis tenant information hotline can provide assistance as well.

You should also understand your duties as a Resident. Look for any stipulations that you are unable to honor. For instance, if you want to sublet your apartment, but the lease prohibits this, you should reconsider your plans. 

Model apartment bedroom
 

Forgetting To Take Pictures On Move-in Day

When you’ve signed your lease and received the keys, you can move into your new apartment! But before moving in, you have one more job. To avoid future penalty fees, document any found damage and let the leasing office know. A quality apartment community will make sure everything is clean and working correctly, but surprise issues can appear. The top communities will schedule a walk through prior to move-in with a maintenance technician and will document any pre-existing problems with you.

Take photos and notes of anything that bothers you. If your apartment community asks you to follow a move-in checklist, make a copy of it to keep for your records. And don’t hesitate to note issues that are not on their list.

Embark On Your Apartment Search With City's End - Fountain Square Apartments

Start your apartment hunt off right by talking to City's End - Fountain Square Apartments. Our Leasing Specialists are happy to show you around and answer questions about our attractive community and apartments. Call 463-231-3192 or schedule a tour to learn more.