1) How many people do you want to live with?

2) What is the MOST each person can pay with heat and hot water included?
What is the MOST each person can pay without heat and hot water included?

3) Where do you want to live? Ideally pick 2-3 locations depending on transportation needs.

4) Be prepared to submit a rental application, credit checks (done by realtor), guarantor forms (someone else says they will verify for you if you do not have a job) and a one month deposit to submit with a completed application.

5) Typically a landlord requires first month's rent, last month's rent, and a security deposit upfront. The security deposit is returned to you after move out and a full inspection to ensure there is no damage to your apartment. (This is why it is important to make sure you fill your "apartment conditions statement" in your lease.)

6) A realtor's finder's fee is typically one month's rent, unless the landlord is participating in paying some or all of the fee. Each unit varies and can change with the seasons.

7) You should get apartment insurance, which can cover any lost, stolen, or damaged goods. You are responsible for anything in your apartment. The landlord is only responsible for the outside.

8) Landlord references are important when moving next time, so try your best to pay your rent on time and maintain a good relationship.

9) Make sure you discuss expenses with roommates so that you are not put in an awkward position later in your rental cycle. Your realtor and landlord cannot help you when it comes to money or friendships!

10) If in the event you need to leave an apartment, each lease defines the notice and terms of what you must do. You are always responsible for the monthly rent from the day you sign your lease until the day it says it end. (Check subletting agreements in the lease… most landlords do not allow subletting. If this becomes a concern, we can cooperate to assist you with re-renting your apartment.)

11) If you have any pets be prepared to submit a written letter of reference from the veterinarian, neighbors, and/or landlords that have provided housing for you & them in the past. References make a HUGE difference when competing for a rental.

12) If you have any further questions regarding the rental process in the state of Massachusetts, please click here to email or call the main office at 617-868-8500.