Sophie had been looking for a new apartment for two weeks. She wanted to move closer to her workplace in the city center. Every day she checked the apartment listings online. Most apartments were either too expensive or too far away. Finally, she found an interesting listing for a two-bedroom apartment. The rent was reasonable and the location was perfect. Sophie called the landlord immediately to arrange a viewing. The landlord said she could come to see it the next afternoon. Sophie arrived at the address at exactly three o'clock. The building was old but well-maintained. The landlord, Mr. Weber, was waiting for her at the entrance. He greeted her warmly and led her upstairs to the third floor. The apartment had a bright living room with large windows. Sophie noticed the wooden floors were in excellent condition. The kitchen was modern and had all the necessary appliances. There was a refrigerator, a stove, and a dishwasher included. Mr. Weber explained that the kitchen had been renovated last year. Sophie asked if the heating costs were included in the rent. The landlord said that only water was included. Electricity and gas would be paid separately by the tenant. The first bedroom was spacious enough for a double bed and wardrobe. The second bedroom was smaller but had a nice view of the park. Sophie thought it would make a perfect home office. The bathroom had a bathtub and a separate shower. There was also a small storage room in the basement. Sophie asked about the neighbors and the building rules. Mr. Weber said the building was quiet and most residents were professionals. Noise after ten in the evening was not permitted. Pets were allowed with a small additional deposit. Sophie was happy to hear that because she had a cat. The landlord asked her how many people would live in the apartment. Sophie explained she would live there alone. He asked about her employment and monthly income. Sophie told him she worked as a marketing manager at a tech company. Mr. Weber seemed satisfied with her answers. He explained the terms of the lease agreement. The minimum rental period was twelve months. A deposit of two months rent was required before moving in. The tenant would need to give two months notice before leaving. Sophie asked when the apartment would be available. The landlord said the current tenant would move out at the end of the month. She could move in on the first of the next month. Sophie took some time to think about the decision. She walked around the apartment one more time. She checked the water pressure in the bathroom. She opened and closed all the windows to make sure they worked. She also tested the light switches in every room. Everything seemed to be in good working order. Sophie asked if she could paint the walls a different color. Mr. Weber agreed as long as she painted them back to white before leaving. He also mentioned that any major changes needed his approval. Sophie felt this apartment was exactly what she had been looking for. She told the landlord she wanted to rent it. Mr. Weber was pleased and said he would prepare the contract. They agreed to meet the following week to sign the paperwork. Sophie would need to bring her identification and proof of employment. She also needed to provide references from her previous landlord. The landlord gave her his business card with his contact information. He reminded her to transfer the deposit before signing the contract. Sophie thanked him for showing her the apartment. She felt excited about starting a new chapter in her life. On her way home, she made a list of furniture she would need. She already had a bed and a sofa from her current place. But she would need a new desk for the home office. She also thought about curtains and kitchen supplies. Moving would be a lot of work, but Sophie was ready for it. A week later, she signed the lease and received the keys. Sophie smiled as she opened the door to her new home. She knew this apartment would be perfect for her. Moving day was coming soon, and she could not wait to start fresh.
Renting an Apartment
English Story for Intermediates (B1)
This B1 English story is designed for intermediates learning English. It includes simple vocabulary and short sentences to help you improve your reading and listening skills. Click any word to see translations and hear pronunciation.
About this story
Sophie finds a two-bedroom apartment close to her workplace and arranges a viewing with the landlord, Mr. Weber. She tours the apartment, checking the kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom, and storage. After discussing lease terms, rent, deposits, and house rules, Sophie decides to rent it. She signs the contract a week later, excited to start her new life in her perfect apartment.
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