Most renters sign a standard 12-month lease when renting an apartment, but there is another option available: the month-to-month lease. This type of lease certainly isn’t right for everyone, but given the right circumstances, it may be exactly what you need. Pros of a month-to-month lease Some renters prefer shorter-term… read more →
Many renters find out, after they’ve already moved in, that not all landlords are created equal when it comes to respecting a tenant’s right to quiet enjoyment of the property. It may be a landlord who mysteriously appears often at the property, one who enters without notice or one who… read more →
One question you hear frequently through your 20s is, “When are you going to buy a house?” Some believe you are missing out on the benefits of homeownership, while others think that with careers constantly taking you to new cities, you are better off renting forever. Many people grapple with… read more →
Rent is one of the largest monthly expenses for most people and, as a result, dictates the budgeting process. It’s common knowledge you can get kicked out of your place if you fail to pay (that’s usually spelled out pretty clearly in rental agreements), but eviction is only one of… read more →
When renting, research a location and spend time in it before signing a lease. Of course affordability is at the top of most prospective renters’ list of must-haves when searching for an apartment. A bargain may seem like the ultimate win, but an apartment that fits into your lifestyle is essential… read more →
The number of renters has swelled nationwide following the collapse of the housing bubble. Some renters face stiffer competition for vacancies and higher rents. All renters who take the time to study the quirks of their particular market will fare better. Here’s what you need to know if you’re a renter.… read more →
No one can tell you when you’re ready to become a homeowner. But it’s probably fair to say a lot of first-time buyers wish otherwise. Buying a home is often one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. It’s also among the most infrequent. Knowing you’re prepared to buy a… read more →
Congratulations! You decided to accept that new job offer in another city or finally closed on the home of your dreams. And while you’re excited about taking that next step, you’re facing a huge frustration: You need to pack all your belongings into boxes, and lug it into another home. Moving is… read more →
In a perfect world, landlords and tenants would work together like a well-oiled machine, both generously doing their part to keep each other happy and not disturb their neighbors’ “peaceful enjoyment of the premises,” as phrased in Mississippi’s landlord-tenant law. In fact, lots of tenant-landlord relationships fit this description, but we’ve… read more →
Do you want to pay an extra one or two months’ rent? Of course not!. But your security deposit probably represents one to two month’s rent, and countless renters never see that money again. Here are six tips to avoid losing thousands to lost security deposits. Take Photos or Video… read more →