Sample issue

Hi there,

This month's step: the move-in video

Before a single box comes in, walk through the empty apartment filming slowly. Open the oven, the fridge and every cabinet. Zoom in on scratches, stains and chips, and say the date out loud. Email a copy of your notes to your landlord and save the video somewhere safe. It's your best evidence when you move out.

More in The move-in inspection.

One thing to check in your lease

Look for the notice period: how many days before you leave you have to tell the landlord in writing. Put a reminder in your calendar now.

Reader question

"The landlord is out of the country and wants the deposit by wire before I see it. Normal?" No. That's a classic rental scam. See the place in person and sign a lease before paying. See Avoid rental scams.

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Fresh Start Corner