Finding the Right Apartment for You
Before you go around looking it’s important figure out your price range as well as the area you want to live in. These can be altered at any time, but knowing right off the bat will help you narrow your choices down and be as realistic as possible. Once you’ve determined what you can afford and what location you’re interested in, look around online for apartment complexes that fit these criteria. (Some helpful websites include forrent.com and apartmentfinder.com). If there are apartment complexes that fit your criteria, make some phone calls to set up some visits. If there are no apartments that match your criteria, search around and try to reevaluate your choices and see if there’s any room to change your price level or your location.
The next step is to figure out what amenities are a must and which you can live without. Some apartment complexes offer garages, fireplaces, washers/dryers. Some don’t come with dishwashers or even washer/dryer hookups. Some have elaborate clubhouses and pools on the ground (which you will pay for in rent) and others have no outside amenities. Decide which ones best suite your lifestyle as well as your price range. Also, determine what you could feasibly live without and what would be a deal breaker. Remember, even though you’re only renting the apartment, chances are you’ll be living there for over a year. Even though it may not be a permanent decision it is a long-term one, so consider each decision very carefully.
Once you’ve decided what you want and have found a few places you’re interested in, call the apartment complexes to set up a tour. Oftentimes, you can just walk in and they will be able to show you an apartment, but calling ahead never hurts. On the tour make sure to pay attention to those amenities that are important to you. Also, pay attention to how you feel. Are you comfortable? Do you feel safe? If you don’t feel comfortable or safe on the tour chances are even less likely you’ll feel comfortable and safe when living there. Pay attention to your surroundings and try to picture yourself there for a long period of time.
Pay attention to the staff, both the person who takes you on the tour and any other staff members you encounter. If you have any issues with your apartment you want to know that your staff will be friendly, attentive, and helpful. Watch how they interact with others and with each other. You don’t want to live somewhere where something in your apartment breaks and you can’t get anyone to fix it. You also don’t want to live somewhere where the staff is going to be rude or impatient with you. Make sure you feel as comfortable with the staff as you do with your surroundings.
Pay attention to the age of the unit. Many apartment complexes are kept in pretty good repair even if they are 20-30 years old, however, many merely look inhabitable. If the apartment complex you are considering is older pay very close attention when touring an apartment. Look at things like the condition of the walls, appliances, doors/locks, windows (especially for heating concerns), and carpeting. Older apartments, no matter how well kept, will have more problems than newer/remodeled apartments. If the tour guide from the apartment complex says the units have been remodeled, ask for specifics. Sometimes remodeled can mean as little as new carpet or new appliances. Be very careful when considering older apartment complexes.
If you are a smoker, or own pets, make sure to talk about this with the leasing agent from the apartment complex. There are often fees associated with pets, or limits on weight. Smoking may only be allowed in some units. Make sure whatever the case is, it fits your needs and doesn’t hurt your budget. If you have any disabilities, make sure to pay attention to access not only in the apartment building, but in the other offices, clubhouses, pools or whatever facilities you might consider using.
Before signing any lease there are two important things to consider. First, make sure you see your particular unit. Sometimes an apartment complex may show a display apartment, or an apartment that is ready if yours is not. Do not sign any lease until you have checked out the unit you will inhabit. The layout may be different or something may not be to your tastes. You want to see the place you will live before signing anything binding you to it.
Also, make sure to look over the lease carefully. Read the termination of lease policy, pet policy, and their policies on damages to the apartment. Know what you’re getting into and what the apartment complex expects you to take responsibility for. If you have any questions ask. Don’t sign a lease unless you are positively sure you’re ready, you want the apartment, and you know what the lease contains.
Choosing the right apartment can be stressful, especially if you have never done it before. Always make sure to know what you’re getting yourself into before signing anything. Never be afraid to ask a question and make sure whatever decision you make is right for you and your particular situation. If you keep your eyes open and are conscious of the decision you’re making, you won’t be sorry with your choice. You’ll find a safe, cozy fit.
