- According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 45% of Americans rent their home. With so many options available to fit almost any budget and lifestyle, it comes as no surprise that this number is only expected to rise in the near future.
- Despite the many options to choose from, it is still quite easy to get into a unit that will have you wanting to move out upon immediate arrival. To avoid this from happening to, important matters need to be taken into consideration.
- We have created a list that may help you find the apartment of your dreams, one that fits your budget and lifestyle. So are you apartment hunting? Important things to consider when renting are listed below!
Apartment hunting? Important things to consider when renting
Affordability
- Before you begin the search for the perfect apartment, you must first establish a budget, and try to stick to it. Once you have your budget established, research the neighborhood you’re interested in and the average cost of apartments in that area.
- Do your best to compare the available options and beware of too good to be true deals. Once you have your budget established, you can then easily determine if the place you’re interested in is reasonable and affordable.
- Be sure to also budget in the costs of utilities you will have to pay for each month.
Neighborhood
- Don’t underestimate the importance of a great neighborhood, or one that is located in the shadier part of town. Aside from safety, take into consideration the overall location. Is it conveniently located near public transportation and various stores?
- If neither of the two is of concern to you, consider the things that are! The perfect apartment can be located in a not so perfect neighborhood, and your neighborhood is not just something you will be able to avoid.
- On the flip side, you may come across an apartment that doesn’t meet all of your amenity needs but is located in a great neighborhood, perhaps with an excellent school system.
- Sometimes a little compromise is needed when looking for an apartment. Think about what is important to you and the things that you can perhaps do without.
Amenities
- Carefully consider all of the amenities that you just cannot go without. For an example, not all complexes come with an elevator. In fact, it is very common to come across a gorgeous and spacious walk-up apartment that would otherwise be perfect for you.
- Establish your must-have amenities and avoid wasting time looking at apartments that just don’t fulfill your lifestyle needs.
Expectation vs. Reality
- Always make it a point to see the place in person prior to signing any contracts. Pictures are meant to entice and at times mislead the potential tenant. During your visit, you will want to make sure the apartment doesn’t come with any health or safety issues either.
Pet policy
- If you’re a pet owner, you will have to make sure your particular apartment of interest allows for pets. In some cases you will have to pay a deposit and even a monthly fee that is included into your rent each month. Consider this factor when creating a budget as well.
Landlord
- Your landlord may not have much of an affect on your life if perhaps you’re renting in a large complex. But what if you rent in a much smaller complex, where your landlord will play a significant part in your daily life.
- It may be easy to escape your repulsive landlord, if perhaps you’re one of 50 units in the building. The same cannot be achieved if you rent in a 3 family home. If you plan to rent in a smaller complex, be sure to meet with your landlord face to face before agreeing to any contract.
Roommates
- If you’re renting an apartment with a roommate you have never met before, it’s best advised to get to know the individual as much as possible before hand.
- At the very least, try to have a couple of phone conversations with your future roommate and discuss ground rules. You don’t have to be best friends but mutual understanding should be established prior to moving in together.
Pro Tip Helpful tips on moving in with a roommate.