Finding the perfect property to rent can be daunting.

Experts advise steering clear of these five things before signing a lease.

You don’t want to be stuck in a lease you’re not satisfied with.

White apartment building with tress and bushes

Credit:Andreas H / Getty Images

When renting a house, a lease will also include expectations about maintenance.

Ask your landlord to include these things in the leasebefore you signso you have the expectations in writing.

“And see to it you clarify any questions up front before signing the lease.”

Poor Communication with Your Landlord

Another factor to consider when renting is the flow of communication with your landlord.

Are they professional and easy to reach?

Or is the landlord difficult to contact?

Poor communication with a landlord is something all renters should avoid.

“If the rent seems really too good to be true, it probably is,” he says.

Do not, under any circumstances, pay your security deposit over the phone or online, Gross warns.

“Tenants should never take responsibility for doing repairs,” he says.

“Those should be done by the owner and only the owner.”

Gross advises leaving maintenance to the owner in case a DIY project goes awry.

Leaving the heavy lifting to the landlord will ultimately save time and money for the tenant.

check that to keep your options open and do extended research into the property.

Gross' best advice?

Don’t settle on what you want in an rental or lease agreement.

If you are a pet owner, verify pets are allowed.

You’re investing in a lifestyle, and your living space will set the tone for your day-to-day life.