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🏠HOW TO • GUIDE 06

Rent Your First Home Safely

Compare the real cost, inspect the property, understand the lease, and document the condition before moving in.

YOUR GOAL

What you will accomplish

You sign only after you understand the payment, rules, condition, and responsibilities.

BEFORE YOU START

Prepare these items

  • A monthly housing budget
  • Proof of income and identity requested by the landlord
  • Questions about utilities, repairs, parking, pets, guests, and lease renewal
  • A phone for dated move-in photos
STEP BY STEP

Follow these practical steps

  1. 1

    Confirm the owner or property manager is real before sending money.

  2. 2

    Tour the exact unit and test locks, water, appliances, smoke alarms, windows, heating, and cooling.

  3. 3

    Calculate rent plus utilities, insurance, parking, transportation, and all move-in fees.

  4. 4

    Read the full lease before signing; ask for unclear promises or repairs in writing.

  5. 5

    Record existing damage with dated photos and a signed move-in checklist.

  6. 6

    Pay through a traceable method and keep the lease, receipts, messages, and inspection record together.

AVOID THESE MISTAKES

Pause if you see these risks

  • Do not wire money or use gift cards for a property you have not verified.
  • Do not rely on a verbal promise that is missing from the lease.
  • Do not sign blank pages or documents you do not understand.
FINAL CHECK

Before you call this task complete

  • The property and landlord were verified.
  • The full monthly and move-in cost fits your budget.
  • You received a signed lease and documented the unit's condition.
OFFICIAL SOURCES

Confirm the current requirements

HUD — Rental HelpOpen official source ↗FTC — Rental Listing ScamsOpen official source ↗
Educational information—not individual legal, financial, immigration, or medical advice.

Rules, fees, forms, and eligibility can change. Confirm the current requirements with the responsible agency or a qualified professional for your situation.