Finding your first off-campus apartment is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming and even scary. Meeting your landlord for the first time can feel daunting, and if you've never spoken to a landlord before, you might not know what to ask, what to look for, or if you're asking too many questions. You're not! If you feel confused when reading some of these terms, check out our Renting 101 guide for first-time renters!

A good apartment tour isn't just about deciding whether you like the kitchen or the bedroom. It's the perfect opportunity to understand what you'll be paying for, what the lease entails, and what living there will actually be like.

Use this guide to prepare for your first apartment tour so you can walk in prepared and leave with all the information you need to make a confident decision.

 The advertised rent is almost never an accurate reflection of the full cost of living in an apartment. Before you commit to a place, ask the landlord:

✩ What is the monthly rent?

✩ What utilities are included and what will I have to pay for separately?

✩ What is an estimate of the utilities cost each month based on past renters?

✩ Is there a security deposit?

✩ Is renters insurance required?

✩ When is rent due and is there a late fee if rent is paid after the due date?

Tip: Think about your housing budget as the total monthly cost, not just the number in the listing.

 A lease is a legal agreement, so don't be afraid to ask the landlord to explain anything you might not understand. Common questions to ask are:

✩ How long is the lease?

✩ When does the lease start and end?

✩ Can I renew the lease and how does it work?

✩ What happens if I need to move out early?

✩ Are there penalties for breaking the lease?

✩ Is subletting allowed?

Students should always pay particular attention to the lease dates. If your lease extends to the summer, you might have to search for subletters to cover those months you will not be there. Unless you plan on staying in the apartment over the summer, you will be responsible for the rent even if you are not living there.

 A tour is the perfect opportunity to compare the apartment with the listing and to ask some questions about the property:

✩ What appliances are included?

✩ Does the apartment come furnished?

✩ Where is the laundry?

✩ Is parking included or is there an additional fee?

✩ How are heating and air conditioning handled?

✩ Do you have a system for repairs and maintenance? If so, how do I submit a maintenance request?

✩ Are there any known problems in the apartment?

An answer is only a superficial confirmation. Take the chance to look around and check for anything unusual: water damage, unusual smells, damaged windows, broken appliances. Bring this up with the landlord and ask how it will be handled in case you were to sign the lease and move in.

 If you're planning on sharing the apartment, rules matter just as much as the price of rent. Ask these questions:

✩ Are roommates allowed?

✩ Are overnight guests allowed?

✩ Are pets allowed?

✩ Are there quiet hours?

✩ Are there restrictions on decorations or hanging things?

Moving in with other people means you have to handle issues and problems with open communication. Make sure everyone understands the basic rules so you know how problems will be tackled if they come up.

 Being a student can come with housing questions that other renters don't have, so it's important to ask a few extras — especially if the property is advertised and promoted on student-specific platforms such as JumpOffCampus:

✩ Is the property commonly rented to students?

✩ How far is it from campus?

✩ Is there nearby transportation?

✩ Is a guarantor required?

✩ What documents are needed for me to apply?

These questions are straight to the point and can help you avoid wasting your time if the apartment does not meet your qualification requirements.

 Pay close attention to:

✩ Water: Look under the sinks for stains or leaks.

✩ Windows and doors: Make sure they open, close, and lock properly.

✩ Bathrooms: Check water pressure, drains, toilets, and signs of mold or damage.

✩ Noise: Listen for traffic, neighbors, construction, or other noises that might affect you.

✩ Cell service and internet: Check whether you get reliable phone signal and ask what internet options are available.

You don't need to be an expert. Simply look for anything that might affect your comfort, safety, or expenses. Trust your gut, especially if you don't have a good feeling about something.

✩ You do not have to say yes on the spot! A tour is not a commitment. You can like the apartment and still want some time to discuss with your roommates, parents, or past tenants to weigh your options. Just say: "Thanks, this is really helpful. I'm looking at a few places, so I'd like some time to review everything before making a decision."

✩ The first tour should be about getting answers. There's no need to have experience or know all the answers. A trustworthy landlord should expect tenants to come prepared with questions and give clear answers. The goal is not to find the apartment in the first five minutes. It's to find a place you understand, can afford, and feel comfortable agreeing to!

Go in prepared, take notes, read everything carefully, and don't be afraid to ask one more question when something doesn't make sense. That's not being difficult—it's being a smart renter 🌟.