While getting into a new place can be exciting, don't let that excitement blind you to some major things to watch for in an apartment. While you may think you've found the perfect apartment, check these things out first before you sign that lease.

There are many things to check out in an apartment, both inside and out, so here's a short list of areas that you may have missed when looking the first time.

• Faucets in the kitchen and all bathrooms. Make sure there is adequate water pressure and that the hot water works in all of them.
• Check all the light fixtures to make sure they are operational. If they're not have the landlord change the bulb to make sure the fixture is not bad.
• Check all of the appliances. That includes microwaves, stoves and refrigerator as well as the washer and dryer if they're included
• Make sure all of the toilets flush properly.
• Check the level of cell phone reception. If you have to sit on the windowsill to get cell phone reception, you're not going to like it.
• Look for signs of insect infestation or mold. The apartment should be clean and in good repair, with no sign of bugs or mold.
• Look at the carpet for any tears or worn spots. These are usually prevalent in entryways and where the carpet ends and the linoleum begins.
• Listen to the apartment. Is there a lot of road noise inside?
• Make sure all the doors open and close smoothly, as well as making sure that the locks actually work.

There are a few things to look for outside as well. Checking these can help you make sure that the apartment complex is a safe place to live as well as making sure they have the amenities that you need.

• The roads and public transportation system. Are the roads in good repair? Is there reliable transportation in the area?
• Does the landlord have a good reputation? Asking other renters can be a good way to find out this information.
• What is the area or neighborhood like? It doesn't matter how nice the apartment is if it's located in the middle of a crime ridden area.
• Check out the park or playground area. Is the equipment in good repair? If there's not a park area within the complex, is there one nearby?
• Check out the area's schools. You can find this information quickly online. This will help you decide if you'd like to raise your children in the area.
• Is there a laundry facility in the complex? If there isn't one and there is no washer and dryer in the apartment, how far away is the closest Laundromat?

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Zack Fair publishes articles for Rent-Dallas-Apartments.com, a website dedicated to promoting Dallas Apartments providing resources on Apartment living , Dallas Suburbs, communities, and schools to people looking to live in Dallas.