It can be an absolutely terrifying and intimidating experience: renting an apartment for the very first time. It is almost as if landlords and rental agents can sense your inexperience, and they seize on it like a shark in bloody waters. Here are a few general tips for Atlanta area apartment hunters to use if they are new to the apartment renting game.

First off, don’t go alone. If this is the first time you have rented an apartment, try to take someone with you who is a seasoned veteran at apartment living. This can be difficult if you are moving to a new city, and you don’t know anyone, but try to include an experienced voice in your apartment hunt one way or another. They can tip you off if they sense that you are being taken advantage of or lied to, and you can then politely say no and get away.

The Internet is your friend if you are a first time apartment hunter. Since most landlords and rental agents aren’t very good at being honest about the shortcomings of their apartments, online apartment hunting websites are flush with honest and forthright information that will give you the straight scoop on where to live.

Finally, make sure you read your lease all the way through before you sign it, even if that means taking a copy of it home and reading it carefully on your own. Experienced apartment renters know what to look for in a lease as far as terms and conditions go while a first timer may not. Ask plenty of questions and make sure your bases are covered.