QUOTE (Jake @ Jun 18, 2014 -> 11:00 PM)
So the girlfriend and I are moving in about 6 weeks and need to line up a place. We had both lived on a college campus because we were working in residence life so this is our first foray into "real" housing. Of course, we have no idea how to avoid being scammed/having a bad experience in this process.
What kinds of things should we look for as we look at places - hidden utility costs? Certain features? Some way to figure whether there will be maintenance issues?
We'll also be moving to a place that we'll have only spent a few days before we move in; any suggestions for how to evaluate neighborhoods from far away?
And if anyone knows anything about Columbus, OH, feel free to let me know anything specific.
If you are renting from an apartment complex ask if they have a maintenance crew that will fix any problems for free or if there are charges.. See the internet/tv situation and what is and isn't allowed. Ummm make sure you find out everything you are responsible paying for/what is included in the rent charges. Try to find out when buildings were built and see if you can tour an open apartment or wherever your staying.