A Dozen Things to Watch for when Touring Gainesville, FL Apartments

When you are in the market for a new Gainesville, FL apartment, it is standard practice to visit several communities and compare what each has to offer.

As you tour various properties, leasing consultants will probably show you the amenities and model apartments. Of course, each model apartment will be staged to look absolutely perfect so that you can envision yourself living there.

But what about the apartment you will be living in? Once you become serious about one Gainesville apartment community and are ready to sign a lease, you should inquire about viewing which specific apartment will be yours, before you sign a lease.

When viewing your selected apartment, here are some items you should check:

1. Examine the front door. Are there any large cracks? Is the deadbolt sitting solidly in the door? Does it lock properly? Is the weather-stripping in good condition?
2. Open and shut interior doors. Do they fasten the way they should? Does each door fit properly within its frame? Are the hinges and knobs sturdy?
3. Run the water in each sink. Does the hot and cold water work? Is the water flow adequate?
4. Turn on the showers and run the hot water. Keep it on while you inspect the rest of the apartment. Is the water still hot after several minutes? Does it have good pressure?
5. Flush the toilet(s). Do they work properly? Does the plumbing make any unusual sounds?
6. Find the fire extinguisher and smoke detectors. The apartment should be adequately equipped with these items.
7. Look under bathroom and kitchen cabinets for signs of leaks or mold. Test the other cabinetry for smooth operation.
8. Check out the water heater and air conditioner. Do you see any rust or leaking water? Do you hear any strange sounds?
9. How do the range, refrigerator, and microwave look? Are they clean? Are they missing any parts? Do all the elements for the stove and oven work?
10. Do you see evidence of bugs or other pests?
11. Open and close the windows. Do they all have screens? Are there holes in the screens? Do you feel drafts when the windows are shut? Is the glass loose?
12. Do you see water damage on the ceiling?

The most important thought to keep in mind is that your Gainesville apartment will be your home for a significant amount of time. You will want your apartment to be a place where you feel comfortable and relaxed. By inspecting your apartment before you sign a lease, you will get a better feel of whether the apartment will truly fulfill your needs. The apartment will also be in better shape on move in day.