Ask about the actual monthly obligation
Confirm the legal or gross rent, any concession, what is due each month, utilities, amenity charges, storage, pets, and every required fee. Ask whether the quoted start date and lease length are fixed and what amount a renewal would be based on.
Test the apartment, not only the layout
Check water pressure, windows, locks, outlets, appliances, heating and cooling, cellular reception, natural light, and signs of leaks or pests. Listen with the windows both open and closed. Ask what will be repaired or removed and put any commitment in writing.
Understand how the building operates
Ask about packages, laundry, trash, bicycles, guests, deliveries, move reservations, maintenance requests, elevator outages, construction, and emergency contacts. Confirm whether the person showing the apartment represents the owner, the tenant, or you.
Evaluate the block as part of the home
Walk the station route and nearest daily errands. Return at a time that resembles your routine if possible. Note loading zones, schools, nightlife, sanitation activity, major construction, and the building entrance without making assumptions about the people who live nearby.
Primary sources
Use these official resources to verify current rules and transaction-specific details.