Choosing a New Apartment doesn’t have to be a tiresome, tedious task.
As long as you ask the right questions of the apartment manager, and know what to consider when choosing an apartment, you can filter out fewer savory options with ease and find the best one for you.
Here are the best suggestions for what to look for when apartment hunting, but don’t be afraid to ask the apartment manager more about specifics!
Does The Apartment Allow Pets?
Whether an apartment allows pets or not is important whether you have an animal companion or not.
Find out which breeds of dogs and other animals are barred from the property. Many landlords don’t allow fighting dog breeds, for example.
If you have an exotic pet, you may have to ask the apartment manager directly.
If you don’t have animals but have allergies, it’s doubly important to ask which animals are allowed. For example, if you have a cat dander allergy, but the apartment does not allow cats, you are probably safe to rent there.
Is Smoking Allowed On The Property?
Again, this is important to consider whether you smoke or not.
If you don’t smoke but the apartment allows it, consider how close your apartment is to the outdoor smoking areas, and be sure to find out whether a smoker was a resident before you if indoor smoking is allowed.
If you are a smoker, it’s also important to consider what you are lighting up. While many states have now legalized cannabis, private businesses still have the power to ban its use on their property.
Check the apartment’s lease contract to find out the company’s policy on non-tobacco smoking.
How Convenient Is the Location?
Location and convenient access to the local area are key factors in choosing the right apartment. Think about where you go regularly, whether that be school, work, or otherwise.
Choose an apartment that doesn’t force you to drive an extra 30 minutes on your commute, an apartment that works with your lifestyle rather than altering it.
Consider going on a dry run to your top spots from the apartment before signing a lease, to get a feel for the local traffic and roads.
What utilities come with the lease?
It’s becoming more and more common to see full utility coverage in modern leases, especially around colleges. This usually raises the price of the monthly rent payment, but you will worry less about making payments on time and managing multiple bills.
However, in some situations, it is cheaper to choose an apartment that does not have utilities included. If you don’t use a lot of water or electricity, the $80 addition to your rent each month will feel a lot more expensive than managing your utilities privately.
Consider the average utility costs, and look at what’s covered vs what you are responsible for.
The price
Not everyone can afford a high-priced apartment, but everyone wants to be in that type of apartment. Although it sounds obvious, you still need to consider the price of the apartment you will get. And the place where it is located highly affects this factor. If the apartment is located in the downtown area, then surely the price will be quite expensive, but if your budget is a bit tight then some apartments in the uptown are suitable for you. Remember, comfort and safety always matter most.
The Damages
Every apartment has a previous owner, but if your apartment is new then lucky you because you don’t have to think about the damages that it brings. The apartment’s damages can also cause you money because some apartment owners will require the new lessors to repair some of the damages on their own. The damages if not repaired can also be a burden to you if you leave that apartment because for sure, those damages will make you pay extra. Take note of the damages that the apartment comes with and ask the landowners if they will handle the repairs, if not then you can ask for a lower rent.
Trustworthy Management
Whether a landlord or property management company takes care of the rental unit, make sure you like and trust the person who is responsible for handling your questions and concerns as a tenant. If your emails and calls go unanswered or the landlord seems rude or dismissive, the situation is unlikely to improve when you live in the apartment.
Appealing Neighborhood
Location is everything when it comes to real estate. Conduct some research and check if your potential rental provides easy access to the places, you frequent and a reasonable commute to work. Visit the property both during the day and at night to make sure you feel comfortable and safe in the neighborhood.
Also read: How to Thrive in real estate sales?
Well-Maintained Condition
When viewing a rental unit in person, pay attention to fixtures, appliances, and structure. Does it look like the apartment could use a touch-up? Does it seem dingy or like it hasn’t had a fresh coat of paint in a few years? If so, you should pass up the property to avoid problems that may go unaddressed. If a property manager is showing a unit in poor condition, be wary.