Things To Consider Before Renting An Apartment?

Answer 1

Looking for a nice rental apartment can be challenging and time-consuming. You want to find a clean, safe place to live that has enough storage, is affordable and is in a good location. However, financial resources and available rental apartments often limit the options. Before singing a lease, make sure the place meets the most important requirements on your must-have list.

Set A Budget

The cost of the monthly rent is only part of the equation. Be sure to factor in necessities, like heat, water and electricity, as well as things like the phone and cable. Some larger buildings have amenities, such as a work-out room or a swimming pool, that may be an additional expense. Decide whether or not you want a roommate.

Choose A Good Rental Apartment Location

Consider whether it is more important to be close to work or shopping. Once you select a few potential neighborhoods, start looking at apartments. Pay attention to nearby streets which may make the area noisy. Seemingly quiet places, like a church or school, can actually be very loud with children playing and school bus activity. Excessive noise can interrupt sleep and daily living.

Scrutinize The Neighbors

Scope out the neighborhood at various times of the day to see what happens. It may be quiet in the mid-morning but loud in the evening or at night. Looking at the vehicles in the parking lot and the yards or balconies of an apartment building will give you some signs about the other renters.

Figure Out Your Essentials

Determine how much space you need including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and closets. Decide if it is vital to have some type of outdoor space such as a patio or yard. Open all of the doors and drawers in each room, especially the kitchen and bathroom, to see what they look like inside. Don't forget about the parking situation. Some apartments will have off-street parking, while others will mandate that you find a spot on the street.

Apartment Safety

In addition to the safety of the surrounding neighborhood, take note of the apartment. Check out the locks on all of the doors and windows to make sure they are secure, especially if the apartment is on the ground floor. Check that the windows actually open and have screens.