Everything You Need to Know Before Renting an Apartment in Mexico City

Budget

Although it may seem obvious, one of the things you should check before renting an apartment is the budget—that is, what the rental price is, and think about whether it's really what you're looking for and can afford. A good tip is not to spend more than 30% of your income on rent.

Direct Deal or Real Estate Agency?

When renting any apartment, it's important to check whether the process is directly with the owner or through a real estate agency, as well as the requirements needed to rent, such as proof of income, family or bank references, a guarantor, etc.

Maintenance

Another thing to check before renting an apartment is whether the price includes maintenance or not, what services it covers, and whether it's paid monthly or once a year. For example, some maintenance fees cover basic services like water, electricity, gas, and the building's doorman service, while others don't.

Check Electricity, Water, and Gas Supplies

You shouldn't assume that the apartment has all the services. Therefore, it's important to ask for water, electricity, and gas receipts to ensure the supply of these services and that they're up to date with payments before renting the space.

Damage and Defects

Discussing the defects of an apartment involves reviewing each of the services and rooms to detect imperfections such as dampness or damaged pipes, ensuring that everything is in order and evaluating whether the price is really worth it. Likewise, it's important to clarify who will be responsible for paying for any defects that arise during the time the space is rented.

Do You Have a Pet?

Not all property owners want pets in their home, so it's important to ask if they are allowed in the apartment and building before renting to avoid possible damage and conflicts.

Restrictions

Like the pet issue, it's important to ask if there are restrictions when decorating or making arrangements inside the apartment. For example, if some windows are only decorative and don't open, if you can paint the walls, or if there are any restrictions on hanging pictures and objects on the wall.

Neighbors

While some neighbors prefer privacy, it's essential to know who lives on the same floor or building, what they do, and their contact number in case of any emergency.

Rent Increases

Rent may be subject to various increases, such as inflation. Therefore, it's important to clarify this and include in the lease a clause with the conditions and responsibilities that both the property owner and the tenant assume to avoid possible conflicts