Locating a residence

1. What is a list of home characteristics to check for?
Check for:smoke alarms, secure locks, loose windows, lighting outside and by the doorways, water pressure and plumbing, closet space, storage areas, parking facilities, security locks, laundry facilities and the costs, noise policies, the number of telephone jacks and electrical outlets, bugs, cable hook-ups, and any outside lawn or garden responsibilities?

2. What about using a roommate referral service?
Some people like to use roommate referral services because they screen all applicants and then match you to potential homes that fit your preferences. The advantages are you can let someone else do the searching for you but the disadvantage is usually there are costs involved for the service.

3. What is a credit check?
Many managers do credit checks once you submit an application. The credit check usually costs between $15-$40 and often you will need to submit the fee at the same time you hand in your application. The manager then runs your name and personal information into a credit check service. Any debts, previous unpaid bills and broken apartment leases will show up. The manager can then make a decision on how dependable they feel you are in paying your rent on time.