Moving Out, Moving Up

Image by McColin via Flickr

Settling into your first off-campus home, family-free, is one of the most exciting times of a young adult’s life. However, take it from me and any number of horror stories out there: there are people out there who will screw you over for a few bucks, and good intentions or not, a relationship with your landlord can easily become strained.

This article from Charles and Hudson tells you how to protect yourself from unscrupulous landlords, because the best way to avoid legal action or unfair costs is covering your bases from the get-go. In short, maintain careful photographic records of your space before and after you move in, sign an agreement specifying each party’s responsibilities (and keep a copy!), and keep the landlord in the loop regarding any problems or concerns.

Let the bad experiences of others be lesson enough to you – this is too important to slack on. Check out this rental lease guide from ehow.com, review these 10 questions to ask before you sign the lease, and double-check these 7 things to do before you move in.

In the meantime, good luck, and enjoy your well-earned privacy!

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