Problem-free apartments

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE
When searching for an apartment, ask to see the actual one you will be living in. Many places have model apartments set up, which might be nicer than the one you get.
Also, take pictures as proof of existing damage so you won’t pay for damage you didn’t do, said Marci Bowlen, real estate broker for Bloomington Realty.  

PET POLICY
If you plan to have a pet, ask about the policy. There will usually be weight or breed restrictions. Generally there will also be a pet deposit and additional rent.

CHECK IT OFF
Do a walk of the apartment with a checklist, Bowlen said. Is it close to campus? Does it have the amenities you want?

BRING AN ID
Some landlords will not show an apartment or sign a lease without a government-issued ID.  

NO SUCH THING AS A STUPID QUESTION
You should have your list of questions ready for when you meet with the leasing agent. Ask questions such as the amount of rent and security deposit, when rent is due and what utilities are included in the rent.

ASK ABOUT OCCUPANCY
If you plan to have roommates, you should ask how many people can live in the apartment. Bloomington has an Occupancy Permit program that limits the number of unrelated adults who can live in an apartment.  

SAFETY FIRST
You can ask about whether the apartment community is a safe neighborhood and if the landlords have courtesy officers, but know that landlords will not guarantee a resident’s safety.   

CREDIT SCORE
Most landlords use a third-party consumer reporting agency, and the amount of your security deposit may be related to your credit score.  

READ THE FINE PRINT
Ask for — and read — a copy of the lease before signing.