This is the list of questions we used when shopping for a home in August of 2003. We left blanks below or to the right of each line so we could print out a stack then take them with us on a clip board to fill out while we interviewed our potential landlords.

Questions to ask:

Central air?

What is the square footage?

When will it be available to move in?

What's the total cost of move in?
Deposit:
Credit check:
Move in deposit:
Additional deposits (garage door openers, etc.):
How many months rent?

What does qualification entail?
Get specifics.
Example: They say you need to have a qualified amount of income?
"What methods can I use to show income?"
"And how much precisely needs to be shown?"
"Most places allow an alternative qualification to monthly income, such as a savings account balance of a certain amount. Do you have such an alternative qualification?"

DSL or cable ready?

If not DSL or cable ready is it available?

If not, can you provide a phone number for the building,
or an adjacent building so that I can check DSL availability?

What kind of parking is available?
How many spots do you get?
If it's garage, how many cars does it fit?
Is it shared?
Does the garage have any storage shelving?
Is it attached (does it have access from the house?)

What's the address?

Washer / Dryer hookups?

Are utilities or trash included?

What appliances does it come with?
Microwave?
Electric or gas oven?
Garbage disposal?
Is refrigerator included?

What is the term of the lease?

We want to live somewhere where pets are not allowed. What is your policy on pets?