Many problems are caused by tenants not carefully reading their lease, or by tenants believing they can easily break their lease. You have read it 2. You understand everything 3. Many other problems tenants have relate to repairs that should have been made to the apartment from the beginning of their tenancy. If you see repairs are needed when inspecting units, write them into the lease.
Verbal agreements are never a good idea.
With a written agreement you will be in a better position to remedy the situation should the repair not be complete by the time you are ready to take possession of the unit. In fact, it is a good idea to keep a written record of all transactions with your landlord. A receipt for your security deposit and all rent paid 2. A copy of the lease and any rules 3. Keep copies of all written correspondence between you and your landlord, especially letters to requesting repairs.