Finding the ideal apartment can be thrilling but somewhat stressful if you’re unsure of what you’re doing. Whether you’re a veteran or first-time renter looking for a rental, you must consider various factors before you sign a lease.
Bear in mind that some rental mistakes could cost you emotionally, financially, or otherwise. The last thing you want is to regret your decision or worse, lose your deposit because you need to move again. Fortunately, this list of do’s and don’ts will help you make an informed decision.
Do’s
1. Establish a Budget and Find Out about the Leasing Process
Before requesting to reside with friends and going for apartment tours, determine a personal cost range since it may vary from prospective roommates.
Remember, apartments aren’t cheap, so discuss a budget with friends and parents before wasting time on a complex that ends up being too costly. Bear in mind that establishing a budget also allows you to know what you can realistically afford, forcing you to prioritize.
2. Trust your Intuition
The appropriate apartment must feel like home, so as you assess various living possibilities, trust your instincts. Allow your sixth sense concerning a place to guide you in making a final decision.
If you’re unsure about trusting your instincts, remember you can always compare particular elements of apartment living you’ve appreciated in the past with those you notice in a new place.
3. Consider Location
The last thing you want is to sign a lease only to discover later that you dislike the apartment’s location. Ensure you take the time to verify whether the place has access to essentials such as grocery stores and restaurants.
4. Consider Comfort
Amenities fascinate numerous people that they overlook the aspect of comfort during their search. Bear in mind that the unit will be a place to call home, so you must consider your general comfort in that space.
Avoid rushing your walk-through and spend some time feeling out whether the space will offer the necessary comfort level.
5. Establish Move-in Costs
While it’s only sensible that you examine apartments that fit into your cost range, you’ll need to consider extra move-in costs before signing a lease. Remember, most rentals not only require the first month’s rent but also an application fee and a deposit before you move in.
Don’ts
1. Ignore your Needs
A prospective rental might have external appeal but if it doesn’t meet your needs, you won’t be happy for long thereafter. Ensure you have a list of must-haves to ensure you obtain everything you want.
2. Surpass your Price Range
When you locate a desirable apartment, you can easily convince yourself that you can afford it even if it’s beyond your budget.
Bear in mind that this mistake will cost you for the entire duration of the lease. It’s also important to remember that unexpected costs and emergencies always emerge and having room in your budget will make such times less stressful.
3. Assume that Moving will be a problem-solver
As a renter, you can easily get used to moving. Unfortunately, the new lease frequently implies a new set of issues. Moving is taxing and has several costs, so ensure that you really want to move from your current place.
Bear in mind that all living spaces have their benefits and drawbacks, so establish whether you can live with the drawbacks in your apartment before you move to a new set of issues.
4. Forget to examine the Area
Don’t presume that just because you like an apartment, you’ll like the adjacent area. You could locate a great apartment in an unexpected area, but if you wish to socialize with friends and live in a trendy place, then the aesthetically ideal apartment won’t suit you.
5. Forget to ask questions
When hunting, you want to ensure you understand the rental terms and what the lease includes. For instance, don’t presume the cost of utilities is included merely because the proprietor didn’t mention it during your visit.
Final Thoughts
While apartment hunting can be exciting, make sure you consider these do’s and don’ts in order to make an informed decision.
For more information on the do’s and don’ts of choosing an apartment, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.