Lost $650 because I didn't take photos at move-in. Sharing so you don't do the same.

First apartment out of college. I was so excited I never documented anything at move-in. Pre-existing scratches on the hardwood, a scuff on the bedroom door, a bathroom exhaust fan that didn't work, none of it documented. At move-out, every single one of those things appeared on my charges. No photos, no recourse. $650 gone. Take photos of everything. Every inch.