Top Tips to Get Deposit Back:

📸 Document Everything—Like You’re Filming a True Crime Doc
Before you move in and out, take photos and videos of every room, wall, appliance, and weird mystery stain that was already there. Timestamped evidence of your photos is your BFF if there’s a dispute later. Fill out a ‘move in’ form and/or email house status to property management or landlord/owner.

🧽 Clean Like Your Landlord’s Mother Is Coming Over
Wipe, scrub, mop, repeat. That weird stuff behind the fridge? Yeah, clean that too. Sometimes your lease already has a cleaning fee that you paid at the lease start – that could come in handy on move out!

🧼 Carpets Need a Spa Day
If your lease says “professional carpet cleaning,” don’t DIY with your vacuum and a prayer. Hire someone. Save the receipt. Ask for referral: affordable and good carpet cleaner… I know the guy!

🌿 Your Jungle = Their Yard
Lawn looking like a set from Jumanji? Mow it. Water it. Make it look loved. Proactively communicate with your landlord if you’re unsure of their expectations, especially in drought conditions.

🛠️ Fix Minor Damages (Before They Get Major Fees)
Fill in major holes, caulk bathroom, fix/replace broken blinds, tighten fixtures, spot clean stains on carpets, remove all trash, etc.

⏰ Give Proper Notice
Read your lease and give the required notice—usually 30 or 60 days. Otherwise, your deposit might mysteriously vanish into the Landlord Twilight Zone.

In general, Communicate Like a Pro (Not Like a Ghost) with your property manager. Keep it polite, and always in writing. Ask about final inspection policies and cleaning expectations so there are no surprises! Good luck!