All Forum Posts by: Davis Hermann

Hi Deanna, 

Thank you very much for your thoughtful response - I appreciate it. 

Generally speaking, what's the best way to approach the Landlord about questions I might have or changes I might request? Do I set up an in-person meeting and go over it with them? Do I send them a list of my questions / concerns?

My fear is that the Landlord will be unwilling to negotiate as they already have my holding deposit. I want them to know I'm very serious about the apartment, but that I want to be sure I understand the lease and that it is fair.

Thanks again,

Davis

Hi Jennifer,

Thanks for the information. It's good to know the renewal time is a small change, and one that the LL might be willing to make! It may not be a big thing for them, but three extra months would be enormously helpful for me.

Best,

Davis 

Hey Cody,

Thanks for your input. I love the place, and I'm very serious about renting it, I just don't like that they seem to have all the power in the lease discussion. And yes, I'm happy to talk about what I don't like about it. 

My primary concern is the 'lease renewal' clause, below:

1. Is it normal to automatically renew after only six months? This is a year lease. That seems REALLY early to me. I was anticipating having to make that decision at something like 9 months.

2. The lease states that the renewed lease will be at the current rental rate plus 5%. Is that typical? After poking around online a bit, it seems like 3-4% is about average.

Thanks,

Davis

Hi Kurt,

For better or worse, that was never specified, and I'm kind of afraid to ask. All I can say is that in both the check I wrote and in a receipt they gave me, the language is "holding deposit."

Davis

Hi All,

I'm considering signing a lease for an apartment in Philly, and I'm concerned I may be getting taken advantage of. First off, I made the mistake of giving the landlord a "holding deposit" before having a chance to thoroughly review the lease. Now that I've had more time to read it, I've noticed some things in the lease I'd like to have amended before signing.

The thing is, I'm worried they'll refuse to change the lease and try to keep my holding deposit.

What recourse do I have? Is the holding deposit refundable? It was never stated in writing and now I'm afraid to ask in case the vagueness of the agreement is beneficial to me. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Davis