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Talking to a Landlord
Talking to a Landlord or Realtor
When looking for an apartment, you will need to talk to a landlord or a realtor. This can be a difficult thing to
do. You may feel nervous. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
When you meet with a landlord or realtor...
When you meet with a landlord or realtor to see an apartment, you want to make a good impression. Here are
some tips to keep in mind:
What does a landlord want to know about me?
A landlord wants to know whether you will be a good tenant. Some of the things they will want to know is:
When should I tell them that I have a subsidy?
When you feel that the landlord has had the opportunity to get to know you, tell them that you have a subsidy.
Describe the inspection process to them. If they have any questions that you cannot answer, tell them you will
contact them later and let them know. Call your housing case manager if for assistance with answers.
Talking to a Landlord or Realtor
When looking for an apartment, you will need to talk to a landlord or a realtor. This can be a difficult thing to
do. You may feel nervous. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
When you meet with a landlord or realtor...
When you meet with a landlord or realtor to see an apartment, you want to make a good impression. Here are
some tips to keep in mind:
- Dress neatly
- Be on time. Better early than late
- Use eye contact and be observant Take a friend or family member with you if you are nervous or do not
feel comfortable going alone - Make sure you see the neighborhood both during the day and night
- Take your time
What does a landlord want to know about me?
A landlord wants to know whether you will be a good tenant. Some of the things they will want to know is:
- Can you live up to the terms of the lease?
- Do you have a good credit history?
- Do you have good references?
- Will you pay your rent on time?
- Will you be a good neighbor?
- Will you take care of the apartment?
When should I tell them that I have a subsidy?
When you feel that the landlord has had the opportunity to get to know you, tell them that you have a subsidy.
Describe the inspection process to them. If they have any questions that you cannot answer, tell them you will
contact them later and let them know. Call your housing case manager if for assistance with answers.
- Practice what you’re going to say beforehand.
- Have questions prepared like:
– Are utilities included in the rent?
– How many bedrooms does the apartment have?
- Do not mention that you have a subsidy when talking to a
landlord or realtor on the telephone. - Be polite.
- Speak clearly.
- Before finishing your conversation, make sure that you write
down the person’s name and address. - Make sure that you get clear directions