Nothing is as sincere as cash.
Show up with thirty five 20 dollar bills and flash the cash. Then get a copy of the lease, take it home, and read it. If you like the place, negotiate what is objectionable to you in the document. Make sure you know who pays utilities. If it's you, call 'em to see if they will take you on as a customer before you plunk down for a place. It's pretty bad if you do so and the utility companies lift their legs on you.
If you agree to move in and fork over dough, be sure to get a signed, dated receipt that includes what it's for, and the property address. And have more cash - to cover security deposit and 1st month's rent.