5 Renting Mistakes to Avoid Before Signing a Lease

Apartment hunting can be overwhelming, but it's important not to rush into a decision just to wrap things up. Whether you're renting a room, an apartment, or a house, take your time to choose wisely. This will help you avoid issues like rent being due before you get paid, or an unresponsive landlord when you need maintenance. You don't want to be stuck in a lease you're unhappy with.

Jack Gross, the broker and owner of Better Homes & Gardens Cassidon Realty, shares five things potential renters should keep an eye out for when looking for a place. Before you sign any lease—no matter how great the property seems—consider these points before putting down a deposit.

1. Unclear Expectations

While lease agreements can be lengthy, Gross warns tenants against skipping the fine print, which often contains crucial details.

"One of the biggest mistakes tenants make is not reading their lease thoroughly and missing certain obligations," Gross says.

Typical lease information includes rent amount, due dates, late fees, lease duration, pet policies, and other landlord-tenant agreements. For houses, leases may also specify maintenance responsibilities. If these details aren't in the lease, Gross advises clarifying who’s responsible for things like snow removal, lawn care, and exterior upkeep. Request these terms be included in the lease—before you sign—so everything is documented.

"Before you sign [the lease], make sure you read it and understand it," Gross says. "Clarify any questions upfront before signing."

2. Poor Communication with Your Landlord

Another key consideration when renting is your communication with the landlord. Are they professional and easy to reach? Or hard to contact? Poor communication with a landlord is something all renters should avoid.

Gross suggests that if communication is lacking, follow up every interaction in writing, whether by email or text. "If you feel your concerns aren't being addressed properly, keep it in writing," Gross advises.

3. A Deal That's Too Good to Be True

Gross warns future tenants about deals that seem too perfect, as rental scams with low-rent properties are more common than ever.

"If the rent seems too good to be true, it probably is," he says. Because of high rental scam rates, Gross recommends always meeting landlords in person and handling security deposit payments face-to-face. Never pay your security deposit over the phone or online.

4. DIY Maintenance Issues

While there are plenty of renter-friendly DIY projects, Gross advises leaving maintenance issues to the professionals. "Tenants should never take on repairs," he says. "Those should be handled by the owner."

Gross advises this because a DIY fix gone wrong can lead to bigger problems. For instance, if you try to fix a leaky sink and make it worse, you might be liable for additional damages. Letting the landlord handle maintenance will save you time and money in the long run.

If your lease allows, there's no harm in sprucing up your space with projects like peel-and-stick tiles or gallery walls—just leave the repairs to the landlord.

5. Settling for Less

"Just because you're renting doesn't make it less important than buying," Gross says. Treat apartment hunting with the same level of care as if you were buying a house. Even though renting is temporary, Gross emphasizes the importance of doing your homework before signing a lease. Keep your options open and research the property thoroughly.

If you’re considering an apartment complex, Gross recommends talking to current tenants about their experience and the landlord. Also, visit the property at different times to understand the community and surroundings day and night.

Gross’s best advice? Don’t settle for less in your rental or lease agreement. If you’re a pet owner, make sure pets are allowed. If you want a year-long lease, don’t settle for month-to-month, which often comes with a higher rate. Your living space is an investment in your lifestyle and sets the tone for your daily life.