1. Be wary of apartments under construction. If the apartment is not ready come move-in time, all the landlord legally has to do is not charge rent. Some will place residents in hotels, but this is a courtesy, not a requirement.
2. Don't be scared into signing leases in January and February. The current market in Gainesville is such that there are many empty apartments, so you may be able to negotiate a better deal by waiting.
3. Don't sign a lease without seeing an attorney. Once you sign a lease, you do not have the right to cancel it. There is no such thing as a 24-hour cancellation policy. Attorneys at Student Legal Services in the Reitz Union will review leases for free if you make an appointment.
4. Remember, landlords are trying to sell you something. They may make the deal seem sweeter than it is. If they promise new paint or new carpet, get it in writing!
5. Living with friends is not always a good idea. Before you sign a lease, sign a roommate agreement. If there is a dispute later, there is documentation of the terms agreed to. These contracts can be picked up from Student Legal Services.
6. Ask residents about the apartment complex. Ask about the landlord, maintenance, and reliability of the Internet.
7. Be wary of signing joint leases. When you do, everyone is held responsible for damage or violations, regardless of who the guilty party is.
8. Take pictures before moving in and out. This gives you documentation if a dispute arises.
9. Get renters' insurance. Landlords are not responsible for damage caused by third parties, including burglary and water damage. Also, ask your parents about their housing insurance. Some policies cover renters' insurance for students away at school.
10. Ask about your landlord's responsibilities before signing the lease. Housing landlords have fewer maintenance obligations than apartment landlords. Find out what they are.
11. Go to the Student Government-sponsored Housing Fair Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on the Reitz Union Colonnade to talk to landlords and representatives from Student Legal Services.
