Hidden Questions Every Renter Asks (But No One Wants to Answer)

Renting a home comes with questions most renters think about—but rarely get clear answers to. Below, we break down three of the most common (and misunderstood) concerns renters face, so you can make smarter decisions and avoid costly surprises.

1. Why Do Landlords Stop Responding After You Apply?

This happens more often than renters expect—and it’s usually not personal. Common reasons include:

Another applicant was approved faster
Your application didn’t fully meet the requirements
The landlord received too many applications at once
Incomplete documents or unanswered follow-ups

What renters should know:
Many individual landlords don’t notify rejected applicants due to time constraints. That’s why applying blindly—without knowing credit score, income, or move-in requirements—often leads to frustration.

Pro tip: Look for listings that clearly state qualifications upfront to avoid wasted applications and fees. RentMor.com clearly states the landlord's minimum requirements.

2. What Happens to Your Deposit If You Move Out Early?

In most cases, your security deposit is separate from your lease obligations. Here’s what typically happens:

Your deposit may still be refundable if the home is left in good condition, but you need to read your lease agreement, since most of them are not refundable for moving out early.
You may still owe rent until the unit is re-rented
Early termination fees may apply, depending on the lease

Pro Tip: Read early termination clauses before signing a lease.

3. Renting a Home Sight-Unseen: Is It a Bad Idea?

Not always—but it requires extra caution. It can work if:

You have a full video or virtual tour
The listing below refers to a property management company or someone that you can verify their reviews and credibility.
Lease terms and move-in costs are clearly disclosed before paying.

If you have a trusted family member or friend, view it and FaceTime with you, or take pictures

Pro tip: We do not recommend doing this. The layout or condition may not match your expectations, even though you see a video or take a virtual tour. Also, the neighbourhood may not be what you imagined. We always recommend calling the listing agent/landlord to make sure it is a real person, and second, viewing the home before paying.

Most rental problems come from a lack of transparency. Knowing the answers to these hidden questions helps renters avoid stress, wasted money, and bad lease decisions.