MrLurker698 t1_isjek19 wrote on October 16, 2022 at 1:13 PM

As others have said, I wouldn’t rent without seeing it either. The landlord should want you to see it before signing the lease to avoid future issues for both of you.

If the landlord isn’t letting you see it, that in combination with an excessively high security deposit screams scam to me. Even if the building exists, this person may not be the owner’s representative. I care less about the clauses in the lease here, but I definitely recommend meeting with the “representative” in person at the property. Even if your unit is occupied, they have the legal right to notify the tenant and get you a tour. Otherwise, you should at least walk the halls of the building before signing.

bodhipooh t1_isji11w wrote on October 16, 2022 at 1:42 PM

Agreed that any prospective renter should tour a property before signing a lease, or at least have a friend or relative tour it for them (I have done this before for friends) - sight unseen strikes me as a totally unnecessary risk.

BUT, definitely HARD DISAGREE about the deposit: 1.5 months is pretty much standard practice. It is not an "excessively high security". There is a more recent trend in JC for new construction to only ask for $500 or $1,000 deposits (conditioned/based on income, credit check, and possibly background check) but that's definitely NOT the norm.

MrLurker698 t1_isjtftb wrote on October 16, 2022 at 3:07 PM

Yeah, good point. I didn’t realize that was only 1.5x.

I would just be uncomfortable to give that much money for an apartment that hasn’t been seen.

[deleted] OP t1_iskf12b wrote on October 16, 2022 at 5:30 PM

[deleted]

MrLurker698 t1_iso0aj3 wrote on October 17, 2022 at 12:32 PM

I didn’t realize you were using a realtor. I’m sure it’s real if you have a realtor. The realtor is the professional. Ask them your concerns then go with your gut. Good luck!