Decoding Rental Ads: What Every Tenant Should Know

Looking for a new rental unit can feel like a scavenger hunt. Rental unit ads will tell you…

Looking for a new rental unit can feel like a scavenger hunt. Rental unit ads will tell you the number of rooms, the square footage, and maybe even the price, but reading between the lines can give you more information than you might expect. As a prospective tenant, you want to avoid surprises.

In this brief article brought to you by the property management professionals at 3 Options Realty, we give you some insight to prevent lessors from pulling wool over your eyes.

“Cozy” Could Mean “Tiny”

You’ve probably seen it before: "cozy one-bedroom" or "charming studio." At first glance, these terms sound welcoming or even appealing. In the rental world, however, "cozy" is often a euphemism for tiny.

A "cozy" apartment could mean cramped living space with barely enough room for furniture (let alone guests) If the ad uses this term, it’s a good idea to ask for the exact square footage.

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“Newly Renovated” Might Not Be as Modern as It Sounds

Who doesn’t love the idea of a freshly renovated apartment? When a rental ad claims the unit is "newly renovated," however, it’s worth asking for specifics. Does "newly renovated" mean updated cabinets and fresh paint or did they just slap on a coat of paint over existing issues?

Renovations can vary widely in quality and scope, so it’s important to find out exactly what has been changed and when. A picture of a shiny new floor might hide an old and creaky plumbing system or outdated wiring behind the walls.

“Pet-Friendly” Could Come with Unexpected Costs

If you have pets, you’ll often see ads boasting that the property is "pet-friendly." It’s a phrase that brings comfort to many pet owners, but it’s important to dig a little deeper. Some places may allow pets, but only under certain conditions such as an additional pet deposit or a higher rent to cover potential damage.

The "View" Might Not Be as Scenic as It Sounds

A rental listing might promise you a "stunning view" of the city or "breathtaking sunsets," but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Unless you’ve physically visited the unit or seen recent photos, take these claims with a grain of salt.

“Close to Public Transportation” Could Mean a Long Walk

While proximity to public transit is a huge plus, don’t assume that "close to public transportation" always means a short walk. What’s a short distance for Usain Bolt might feel like a long hike for the average individual. Always ask for specifics about the walking distance or the exact transit options available in the area.

“Utilities Included” Doesn’t Always Include Everything

"Utilities included" is music to any renter’s ears, but it’s crucial to find out exactly which utilities are included in the price. Does "utilities" cover water, electricity, gas, and trash pickup, or is it just a vague term that covers some, but not all, of your monthly bills?

“On-Site Parking” Might Not Mean Guaranteed Parking

Another term to watch for is "on-site parking." It sounds great, but be sure to clarify how many parking spaces are actually available. The apartment complex could have limited parking spaces and, depending on the demand, you might end up fighting for a spot.

Get a Professional on Your Team

Whether you’re a tenant or a property owner in Tucker, GA, having experienced real estate professionals on your team can save you from headache and stress. Those looking to find a property manager are at the right place. 3 Options Realty is full-service property management and real estate company serving Atlanta and surrounding areas.