Setting: A sunny afternoon outside a small, charming house.
(The scene opens on a sunny afternoon outside a small, charming house. SARAH and TOM are waiting on the porch. Sarah is looking at her phone, her expression a mix of eagerness and anxiety.)
SARAH: He said he'd be here at two. It's already 2:05. I really hope this works out, Tom. The pictures online looked perfect.
TOM: Just try to stay calm. Remember what we talked about. Don't fall in love with it too fast. We need to ask the right questions about the lease and the neighborhood.
SARAH: I know, I know. I have my checklist right here. (She taps her phone.) "Ask about utilities, check for dampness, look for cracks..."
(A car pulls up, and a man gets out. He has a friendly smile and a key in his hand.)
MR. DAVIS: Hello there! You must be Sarah. I'm Mr. Davis. I'm so sorry, traffic was a nightmare.
SARAH: No problem at all. It's a pleasure to meet you. This is my friend, Tom.
TOM: (Shakes his hand) Nice to meet you.
MR. DAVIS: (Unlocks the door) Please, come on in.
(They enter the house. It's bright and clean. Sarah's eyes light up.)
SARAH: Oh, wow. It's even better in person! The living room is so big, and look at all the natural light.
TOM: (Walks around, tapping on a wall) It seems well-maintained.
MR. DAVIS: We just painted it last month. The previous tenants were here for five years, so it's been well-cared for. This house is a real gem.
SARAH: (Follows him into the kitchen) What about the appliances? Are they included?
MR. DAVIS: Yes, the stove and refrigerator are yours to use. They're a few years old, but they work perfectly. Now, let’s talk about the rent. The monthly rent is $1,800, and a security deposit of one month's rent is required.
TOM: What about the move-in date? And is there a background check or a credit check?
MR. DAVIS: We can be flexible on the move-in date. A background check is a standard procedure, and we’ll also need references from your previous landlords.
SARAH: (Looking out a window at the garden) This garden is beautiful. Am I responsible for the yard work?
MR. DAVIS: Good question! The yard work is included in the rent. I have a gardener who comes every two weeks.
TOM: And what about repairs? If something breaks, like the furnace, who is responsible?
MR. DAVIS: I am. You just need to notify me, and I'll take care of it as quickly as possible.
SARAH: That's great to hear. This place feels perfect.
MR. DAVIS: Well, I think you’d be very happy here. I'll send you the application form by email. Just fill it out and send it back with the references.
SARAH: Thank you so much! We'll do that right away.