New Year often means a new property. There are a lot of moves going on this time of year, all over Naples, and the country at large. It’s a good time to move psychologically. A new year, a new start. Summer is traditionally the busiest time for Naples real estate agents, but the new year brings its fair share of business too.

Before getting started, it’s often a good idea to see what you can get out of the situation rather than settling with what’s on offer. There will be times when you can squeeze a little more out of the deal without annoying the landlord.

Here are ten questions it might help to ask if the opportunity arises

1.    Decoration. Most good landlords will have a quick decorate between tenants. If you get in quick enough why not ask if you can supply your own colors? You might have to buy the paint, but at least you get to live somewhere you can bear to look at.
2.    Appliances. Ask if they all work and how energy efficient they are. There’s nothing wrong with asking for a replacement or upgrade. You probably won’t get it, but you can ask.
3.    Flooring. Is the carpet or flooring in good condition? Does it need a steam clean, polish or replacement? If so, ask if you can again, have input. As long as you choose something neutral or that has wide appeal you should be fine.
4.    Bugs and Pests. Asking if the building or area has a pest problem is another good one. Also find out if the landlord will make good if one appears.
5.    Payment terms. Asking the landlord if they accept online payments is a great timesaver. We pay everything else online now, why not our rent? Landlords are slowly waking up to the idea and the ease of it all, so check with yours.
6.    Previous occupants. Finding out about previous occupants is also a good idea. How long they were there, why they left, what kind of people they were. The answers will tell you a lot about the building, and the landlord.
7.    Exterior Maintenance. Finding out who is responsible for any exterior work is also a question you need to ask. Also ask about any major repairs that have taken place recently.
8.    Pets. Some landlords will accept pets as long as there is a pet deposit. Others will want extra on top every month. Talk them into a deposit, that way when you leave, as long as everything is okay, you’ll get the money back.
9.    Utilities. Find out what’s included and who is responsible for what. Clarity in this is essential. Some rents include services and utilities and others don’t.
10.   Ask about city inspections. In many cities landlords and their rental properties have to be inspected and adhere to strict codes. Ask about your landlords last inspection.

I’m sure you can think of others, but they are the basic ten that every potential tenant should be asking a landlord. Professional landlords won’t mind a bit, after all they’ll be asking you plenty of questions too.