How to Get Your Full Rent Deposit Back

When you move into a new apartment or home, the leasing agent always asks for a security deposit to cover damages. So how do you get that money back when you move out? As an owner of a duplex, it isn't always easy to give back all of the security deposit. In this article, I'll give you some advice on how to get your security deposit back.

A few years ago, I built a new duplex. It's a simple design with two bedrooms and one bath. I charge a moderate amount for rent but I ask for a $500 security deposit and even more if they have pets. So far, I have broken even every time a tenant moves out. A few times, I lost money on the repairs. So how is $500 spent on making the home presentable for the next tenant? It's the little things that add up and make the deposit disappear quickly. Here's how to prevent you from losing your deposit when you move out of your rental home.

Paint

Painting the walls and trim with a simple coat of KILZ latex paint. For around $100 or less, you can repaint a modest size home. Kilz latex paint comes in a variety of colors and it works well. Kilz latex paint covers almost any stain or smudge quickly and easily. Painting the walls with a quick coat can make dramatic changes in the way a house looks when you leave. Always remember to mask of areas you don't want to get paint on with blue painters tape. Cover the floors with a tarp or painters drop cloth before you paint. If you get any on the carpet or tile, you will most likely lose your deposit. Asking the leasing agent before you paint can help prevent any arguments you may have over the deposit. They may not want you to paint. If they decide its ok, ensure them you will take all the precautions to prevent any damage to the carpets or tile. This simple step can prevent any aggravations or headaches in the future.

Ref: associatedcontent.com