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We have our name in at a couple of apartments that look as though they would be suitable.It is hard to know if the management is more hospitable , and cordial when you sign up. At least we have a checklist now of things to look out for, and ask.
Since we are members of RENT an organization that helps tenants to deal with all the ins and outs of being a tenant, we have learned a lot. It is important to read the lease carefully, particularly the first couple of pages.
Don't initial any part of it unless you understand it, and if not, consult a lawyer, or someone who can help you understand it first. This isn't always easy. The management must give you your own copy of the lease, and DO ask questions.
When you move in to your apartment have a manager or member of the staff follow through your unit with you. If you find something that you would like to be fixed, or replaced, speak about it then, and put that in writing.
When we moved into our present building we learned (soon after) that one of the 2 superintendents was not well. The other tried to cover for him, but things just didn't get done, and no one could account for the reason. When we learned that he was seriously ill we tried to be lenient and hoped that, eventually the changes would be made (a fault in our stove, for instance). Years later, it still hasn't been changed. The reason is more complicated.
It is necessary to write a request for particular maintenance problems. You should have a copy of that request that you keep yourself with the date on it. If the problem is not dealt with within a week, write another order. If this is not dealt with within a week, take pictures if necessary, or send details with your copy to the building owner or the head of the management company.
There were 2 times that we had to take action, one was with a sewage problem that we finally called Public Health about, and they called the management. Things shouldn't get to that level of complaint.

We began to have get-togethers in our party room with other tenants. These, generally, were a success and that was how we managed to deal with the 'smart meter' problem where they wanted to charge us for the hydro.Many tenants were afraid if they didnt comply they might have to leave. The RENT organization has assured us that they can't do that.WE began to feel that the management were nor pleased that we were getting together for these socials. Also, because we use a common laundry room, it was and is a good place to chat. We also put up notices about the meter situation and eventually invited RENT to come and meet with our tenants about this. One time the 'super' (a recently new one) came to me and told me that putting notices up in the halls was 'tacky' and no longer allowed. (I found this funny, as I could have showed him a lot of other things in the building that were 'tacky'. ) We hae since worked out an e-mail and floor message system of communicating.   the Beat Goes On!