Searching for a new perfect rental apartment that fits both your lifestyle and budget is not going to be easy. Thankfully, we are here to help you consider things before moving into an apartment. Before you sign that lease, keep these ten very essential considerations in mind while apartment hunting.
The Price
However, while searching for an apartment, you need to contemplate your budget thoughtfully. Firstly, conduct a bit of online research to get a touch of the typical rental rates in the neighborhood. If you are ready to pay a high price for a specific location, then you will need to find alternate ways to cut back on expenses. Or you might need to find roommates to help cover the costs. Plus, bear in mind that if an apartment’s rent is surprisingly low compared to other rentals in the area, then this might be a big red flag. Be sure that you are well aware of the market before looking at apartments and negotiating a price.
The Quality
Do not get attracted to those beautiful pictures of the apartment that you see online. Before you get a flat or apartment to rent, you should arrange to see the place in person. Bear in mind that interior issues, such as scratches on the wall or broken blinds, can be fixed – possibly by your owner. But more extensive problems might be an indication that the apartment has not been adequately taken care of. As you peruse the condo, look for safety and health issues, such as water damage, bug problems, rodents, leaky faucets, lead paint, asbestos, air conditioning systems, dirty air filters, mold, rust, electrical issues, and broken windows.
The Landlord
Your owner can make or break your renting experience. If you have a bad owner – one with a lack of boundaries or bad ethics– you might end up in your own rental nightmare. To avert this from happening, try to meet with your owner or chat with him or her on a call. If you are moving into an apartment with roommates already, then make sure to ask them about their overall experience with their owner.
The Roommates
Before moving into an apartment with unknown people, it will be quite smart to know them beforehand. Odds are, they will want to screen you as well. Bear in mind that you do not have to be best friends with your roommates, but you do have to respect one another’s privacy and space as well. Make sure that your lifestyles are a good match. If you prefer a 10 p.m. bedtime and they prefer to party late, then your living situation could instantly spiral downhill.
The Neighbors
In addition to your roommates, you must particularly consider potential neighbors. If you meet with your potential roommates, ask them about their experience with their neighbors. If the roommates begin to complain about various neighbors, then the smart thing would be to look for another apartment. No one wants to deal with rude neighbors.
The Neighborhood
Before signing a lease, roam around the neighborhood to get a proper sense of the community. You will be able to assess the general age and demographics of the neighborhood by spending time in that location. You must also examine the area’s safety record.
The Lease
Before signing a lease, you must get a local realtor or lawyer to look over the lease to make sure it is a standard lease with no surprises and is totally legitimate. Thoroughly read over the lease to make sure it fits your needs as well. For example, if you plan on renting your apartment in the future, does this lease allow you to do so? Be sure also to check: whether the lease is a six-month, one-year, or monthly basis type of lease; what date the rent is due each month; who is responsible for the maintenance; whether your deposit is refundable, whether if there are any parking rules, etc.
The Utility Costs
Do not forget about utility costs. In addition to the monthly rent, you will most likely have to pay for multiple utilities throughout the time you live there. These utilities include electricity, water, gas, air conditioning, sewer, and garbage – among others. Your lease must clearly lay out what utilities you are responsible for covering. Some utilities might be included in the rent. If you have any doubts about who pays for what, make sure to double-check with your owner before signing the lease.
The Facilities
When selecting a rental apartment, make sure to consider the area’s facilities. If you are renting an apartment in a condominium building, you will need to make sure the facilities that they provide fit your lifestyle such as a gym, restaurant, retail shops, washing machine and dryer in the apartment building, etc. Chances are, if you are on a tight budget, you will have to make a few compromises, such as enduring a more extended work commute, walking to a laundromat, etc. Whatever the compromise is, make sure you can live with the situation before signing a lease.