Tips For Finding Your Next Apartment

Has the opportunity to move finally come knocking at your door? Or are you in need of a new apartment quickly? Many people think tracking down a new apartment is an easy task. This is not the case! The real truth is that there are a number of different problems involved in trying to find an apartment that actually suits you. And if you're not careful, you could find yourself on the hook for an apartment that you hate. 

If you want to avoid that problem, then follow some of these tips for choosing your next apartment...

Check The Price 

Before you begin doing anything, decide the maximum amount you're willing to pay. Check your budget, make a note of your cost of living, and then figure out what you're willing to give up if you must. Remember to give yourself some wiggle room. You never know when you might hit financial hardship, and you'll be glad you gave yourself a buffer if that happens. 

So figure out your budget and don't deviate. It's also a great way to narrow the search! 

Check On The Amenities 

Amenities shouldn't be at the top of your list, but it's important to enjoy the place you live. Having a washer and dryer inside of the apartment is something that saves time, which can save a lot of stress over time. Do you want your own parking space? Are you okay with parking on the street? 

Make a list of the most important amenities. You may be willing to compromise on any of them, but putting them in order will help you decide what's easier to part with. You'll also have an easier time deciding if everything else is equal! 

Does It Have Damage? 

During the first apartment walkthrough, you may not notice all the tiny details. This is true of most human beings, so don't feel bad. However, you should prepare for it. 

Do a second walk through before you sign on the dotted line. Get a list of any damage, and get the landlord or property manager to sign it. That way you won't find yourself liable for something you didn't do. 

Walk Around The Neighborhood 

Never sign the lease until you've taken a look around the neighborhood. You want to make certain you're close enough to important places. How far away is the nearest grocery store? How about the nearest gas station? Will the traffic level of nearby streets bother you? Is it near especially noisy places such as an airport or a school? 

These are all things that must be considered when you get a new apartment. 

Read The Lease Carefully 

If your landlord doesn't offer a lease, don't rent the apartment. A lease protects both you and the landlord, and it ensures everything is legal. You should also skip out if the landlord doesn't want to give you enough time to read the lease before you sign it. You should always read a lease before you sign it. Or any legal document. Make sure you understand what you read, as well. If you can, talk to a lawyer. If you can't, ask your landlord what it means and then ask for language that makes it more clear to you.

Logistics 

If you have to commute to work, then you need to pay attention to traffic and roadmaps. Transit in the United States is a nightmare because many states have worked to destroy public transportation. Try to balance transit costs with rental fees.

Do these things and you'll be well on your way to finding a great apartment.