That blue wall story wasn’t unique. Many tenants lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars when they move out — sometimes over the smallest details. Here are a few things people told me they wish they had done differently: Document everything 📸 Take photos of every room before you move in and before you move out. Walls, carpets, appliances, even the inside of the oven. Ask in writing 📝 If you want to paint, hang shelves, or make changes, always get permission by email or text. Verbal approval won’t save you later. Do your own cleaning 🧽 Hire a professional cleaner or at least deep-clean yourself. A receipt for cleaning service makes it harder for landlords to charge “extra cleaning.” Don’t ignore small repairs 🔧 Fix nail holes, replace burnt-out bulbs, patch scuffs. It costs little now, but landlords often exaggerate charges for these things. Know your state laws ⚖️ Some states limit how much landlords can deduct, and some require them to provide receipts. Knowing the rules makes it easier to fight back. Losing $1500 over a wall is frustrating. But with preparation, you don’t have to give landlords an easy excuse. #House #TenantRights #RentHacks #HousingCost