Hunting for Apartments

 

You may eventually find yourself needing a place to call a home of your own or possibly may be needing a room mate or just to relocate for any number of personal reasons. At any rate, searching for an apartment requires a strategic mindset of thinking for a positive outcome in long term aspects. Learning about what to expect and researching beforehand will be beneficial to making an informed decision.

Firstly, price range, have you calculated and figured how much you can afford before deciding on an apartment? Be sure to realistically ask yourself, "how much can I afford & will having a room mate be a smart choice?" Before going into partnership with a roommate it's important to establish an equal understanding of shared responsibilities including the lease duration and deposits, also what deposits are to be expected with a holistic view of timeframes.

It's also a smart idea to inquire about amenities, whether there is a gym, pool, running trails, community room, parking fees (free, covered assigned), laundry (in unit washer/dryer or a community facility), are they pet friendly (deposits and monthly costs)?

Next, location, safety and proximity to work, school, family, and places of personal business will be a huge factor on a day to day basis which will be affected by your home location. You will be commuting to and from your living quarters and accessibility is influenced by your current type of mobility. Safety and neighboring reviews can give helpful insight to the current status of living standards in areas of interest. 

After you make your list of possibilities, you will need to contact and schedule appointments for tours. Visiting the apartments will give you a clearer view of the neighborhood vibe and activity, while also leaving opportunity to leave a positive first impression. 

Upon initial inquiry you should expect to pay an application fee, which is usually a non-refundable fee of $50 plus or minus for each adult applying over the age of 18. This fee usually covers any background checks that are administered.

Questions to Ask:

(pen and paper to record)

What deposits/fees are there including,...?

Application fees $

Administrative fees $

Security deposit $

Pet deposits/fees $

Utility deposits $

Rental Insurance $

Keycard and/or Remote fee $

First/Last months rent $

Late fees $

Are there laundry in-unit laundry washers and dryers, or a community facility?

Parking fees?