Anna had been searching for an apartment for three months. She had seen at least twenty different places in the city. Some were too expensive, and others were in bad condition. Today, she was meeting a landlord named Mr. Berg. He owned a small building in a quiet neighborhood. Anna arrived at the address ten minutes early. She wanted to make a good impression. Mr. Berg was already waiting outside the building. He was a friendly man in his sixties with gray hair. 'You must be Anna,' he said with a warm smile. 'Yes, thank you for meeting me,' she replied. They walked up to the third floor together. The apartment had two bedrooms and a large living room. Sunlight was streaming through the tall windows. Anna immediately fell in love with the space. 'The kitchen was renovated last year,' Mr. Berg explained. She noticed the modern appliances and new countertops. 'Does the rent include utilities?' Anna asked. 'Water and heating are included,' he answered. 'You would pay for electricity and internet separately.' Anna walked around, checking every room carefully. The bathroom had a bathtub and a separate shower. 'The previous tenant lived here for five years,' Mr. Berg said. 'She only moved because she got a job in another city.' Anna felt relieved to hear that. It meant the apartment was comfortable enough for long-term living. 'I am very interested,' Anna said honestly. 'Would you consider renting it to me?' Mr. Berg smiled and nodded his head. 'I have a good feeling about you,' he said. 'Let me show you the lease agreement.' They sat down at the kitchen table to review the documents. The lease was for one year with an option to renew. Anna read through every clause carefully. 'What happens if I need to move before the year ends?' she asked. 'You would need to give two months notice,' Mr. Berg explained. 'And you might lose part of your security deposit.' Anna nodded, understanding the terms. The security deposit was equal to two months of rent. 'When would I need to pay the deposit?' she asked. 'Before you move in,' he replied. 'The first month's rent is also due at that time.' Anna had been saving money for this moment. She had enough in her bank account to cover everything. 'Are pets allowed in the building?' Anna asked. She had always wanted to adopt a cat. 'Small pets are fine,' Mr. Berg said. 'But dogs over fifteen kilograms are not permitted.' Anna did not mind that rule. She was more of a cat person anyway. 'Can I paint the walls if I want to?' she asked. 'Yes, but you must return them to white when you leave.' That seemed fair to Anna. 'What about making small repairs?' she asked. 'For anything major, you should contact me first.' 'But changing a light bulb or unclogging a drain is your responsibility.' Anna appreciated his clear explanations. She had heard horror stories about difficult landlords. Mr. Berg seemed reasonable and honest. 'I would like to sign the lease today,' Anna said. Mr. Berg looked pleased with her decision. He handed her a pen and pointed to the signature lines. Anna signed her name on each page of the document. Mr. Berg signed as well and gave her a copy. 'Welcome to your new home,' he said warmly. He handed her two sets of keys. 'The silver key is for the main entrance, and the gold one is for your door.' Anna held the keys tightly in her hand. She could hardly believe this was really happening. After months of searching, she finally had her own place. 'You can move in on the first of next month,' Mr. Berg said. Anna thanked him again and shook his hand. As she left the building, she was already planning how to decorate her new apartment.
English Story (B1)Signing a Lease
This B1 English story is designed for intermediate learners. Click any word for instant translation and build your vocabulary as you read.
aboutStory
Anna has been apartment hunting for three months when she finally meets Mr. Berg, a friendly landlord in his sixties. She instantly falls in love with his two-bedroom apartment featuring a renovated kitchen and tall windows. After carefully reviewing the lease terms, including the security deposit, pet policy, and maintenance responsibilities, Anna decides to sign the contract on the spot. Mr. Berg welcomes her warmly and hands her the keys to her new home, which she can move into on the first of next month.
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Comprehension Questions
4 questions
1
How long had Anna been searching for an apartment?
2
Which utilities are included in the rent?
3
What rule did Mr. Berg give about painting the walls?
4
What did Mr. Berg give Anna after she signed the lease?
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