First-Time Renter Guide

Everything you need to know for your first apartment rental in Denver

🎯 Before You Start

Renting your first apartment is exciting but can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything step-by-step.

Quick Start Checklist:

Determine your budget (use the 30% rule)
Check your credit score
Save for move-in costs (first month + deposit = ~2x monthly rent)
Decide on must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
Start gathering required documents

📜 Understanding Your Lease

A lease is a legal contract. Here's what you need to know:

Standard Lease Length

12 months is most common. Some offer 6, 9, 15, or month-to-month (usually more expensive). Longer leases often get better rates.

Monthly Rent Due Date

Usually the 1st of the month. Check for grace period (typically 3-5 days) and late fees ($50-100 typical in Denver).

Security Deposit

Typically 1 month's rent. Held for damages beyond normal wear and tear. Must be returned within 30 days of move-out with itemized deductions.

Utilities Responsibility

Lease specifies what you pay vs. what's included. Common for tenant: electric, gas, internet. Landlord: water, trash, sewer.

Pet Policy

If allowed: pet deposit ($200-500) and/or pet rent ($25-75/month per pet). Breed restrictions common.

Maintenance Responsibilities

Landlord: major repairs, appliances, structure. Tenant: light bulbs, batteries, minor issues, cleanliness.

Breaking the Lease

Usually requires 30-60 days notice and penalties (1-2 months rent). Some exceptions for military, domestic violence, uninhabitable conditions.

⚠️ READ EVERYTHING: Never sign a lease without reading every word. Ask about anything unclear. Take photos of conditions before signing.

💰 Move-In Costs Breakdown

Here's what you'll need upfront (example based on $1,500/month rent):

First Month's Rent $1,500

Security Deposit $1,500

Application Fee $50

Pet Deposit (if applicable) $300

Moving Costs (truck/movers) $500

Utility Deposits/Setup $200

TOTAL MOVE-IN COSTS: $4,050

💡 Budget Tip: Plan for 2.5-3x your monthly rent in savings before you move.

🔍 How to Find Apartments

Online Resources

Apartments.com - Largest database, verified listings
Zillow Rentals - Good photos, neighborhood info
Craigslist - Individual landlords (watch for scams!)
Facebook Marketplace - Local listings, sublets
Padmapper - Map-based search
Denver Apartment Guide - Neighborhood guides and market data

Questions to Ask on Tours

What utilities are included vs. tenant-paid?
Is there parking? How much does it cost?
What's the pet policy and associated costs?
When are rent increases typically done?
How long to process maintenance requests?
What amenities are included (gym, pool, etc.)?
Is renters insurance required?
What's the neighborhood like for safety/noise?

🚩 Red Flags to Watch For

Landlord won't let you see inside apartment
Requests payment before showing/application
Pressure to sign immediately
Visible mold, water damage, pest issues
Broken appliances, windows, locks
Landlord is evasive about repairs/complaints
Rent significantly below market rate (possible scam)

💡 Setting Up Utilities

Contact these providers 2 weeks before move-in:

Xcel Energy

Electric & Gas

800-895-4999

xcelenergy.com

Avg Cost: $80-120/month

Denver Water

Water & Sewer

303-893-2444

denverwater.org

Often included in rent

Internet/Cable

Xfinity, CenturyLink, Ting

Check provider by address

Avg Cost: $60-100/month

Trash/Recycling

Usually included in rent

✨ First Month Success Tips

Document Everything on Move-In

Take photos/videos of EVERYTHING. Note scratches, stains, damage on move-in form. This protects your deposit.

Set Up Auto-Pay

Never miss rent! Set calendar reminders or auto-pay. Late fees add up fast.

Get Renters Insurance Immediately

$15-30/month protects your belongings. Often required by lease anyway.

Know Your Emergency Contacts

Save landlord, maintenance, building manager numbers. Know emergency procedures.

Test Everything

Lights, outlets, appliances, locks, heat/AC, water pressure. Report issues within 48 hours.

Meet Your Neighbors

Introduce yourself. Good neighbors = better living experience.

Learn the Neighborhood

Find nearest grocery, pharmacy, gas station, bank, laundromat, restaurants.

❌ Common First-Timer Mistakes

Underestimating costs: Forgetting about utilities, internet, renters insurance adds $200-300/month
Not reading the lease: Missing important clauses about fees, restrictions, responsibilities
Skipping renters insurance: One fire/theft and you lose everything with no coverage
Not documenting move-in condition: Landlord can claim YOU caused existing damage
Paying rent late: Late fees are expensive ($50-100) and hurt your rental history
Ignoring maintenance issues: Small problems become big expensive ones. Report everything.
Not giving proper notice: Breaking lease costs 1-2 months rent in penalties
Renting beyond your means: Stress of barely affording rent affects quality of life

Next Steps

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