We are first-timers renting a house from a landlord (in the past we have rented apartments from rental communities/apartment complexes). It's first time for the landlord also. They had asked for our information for background check and after verification they have agreed to lease their house.
What should we check before signing the lease (Since we are in NM state, crime rates/frauds are high here).
some concerns: 1. We googled out landlords name and some background check sites shows 5+ criminal records on his name. We have to pay $20 to get full information. Does it make sense to pay and check? Is it relevant in this decision? 2. Can we ask copy of their ID or proof of house ownership?
We will get copy of lease tomorrow before signing. They are asking 1 month rent as deposit, which I guess is normal. What else should be in the lease contract (eg about repairs, etc?). What are the normal terms if we want to break the lease for buying our own house?
Investor · Philadelphia, PA · Member since 2016 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
7y
@Rajesh Kumar definitely read through the lease and understand it. It’s there to protect both you and the landlord.
Most cities/towns have tax records online. You should be able to easily see who the owner is, and compare that name to who’s renting to you. It can get harder if its owned by a corporation, but many are owned just by the individual. I wouldn’t hesitate asking for his ID too. As long as everything matches, you’ll thwart 98% of fraudulent ‘landlords’ out there.
Lastly, when you meet to get the keys, walk through the house and make note with the landlord of any holes, stains, etc that you don’t want to be blamed for when you move out. If there are some, afterwards, take pictures, and send an email with a list of items (hole in the 2nd bedroom closet wall, stain at the back right corner of master bedroom, etc). Most reputable landlords wouldn’t try to pin those on you, but it’s good to have backup in case you need it when you move out.
Most landlord/tenant experiences are good ones, but good for you to make sure you’re doing the right things!