Security deposit : This money is an initial partial-payment of sorts. Here is a list of all the things to consider in your first apartment budget. There are other expenses you have to plan and prepare for, including security deposit, application fees, utilities and pet fees. Having an apartment isn’t just about paying the rent. Also, be aware some apartment properties have extra fees for smokers. Make sure to open up the cupboards, closets and cabinets to look for physical damage, water damage or animal droppings.Ĭheck all outlets : Take your cell phone charger or something else you can plug in to test each outlet, especially the ones in high-use areas like the bathroom and kitchen.Īsk about smoking policies and smokers : If you’re a smoker, make sure to ask if there is any problem with smoking within the apartment and if fire alarms or other security mechanisms have to be adjusted. Make sure to do it in different areas of the apartment.Ĭheck cupboards, closets and cabinets : Storage spaces are notorious for hidden damage as well as hidden pest control. Test your cell reception : Unless you plan to have a landline, you should test your cell reception. There also things you have to make sure to check during your search for your first apartment. Look for the deals : If you’re on a budget, make sure to look for move-in specials, which are popular during the winter months as well as a few weeks in the summer. They can provide advice on what to look for, what to avoid and how to best go about the search.ĭo other research : As a new renter, it’s important your know your rights as a tenant and what your landlord can and cannot do. While it may be quiet during work hours there always the risk it might be rowdier during the evening.Īsk a friend to accompany you : If you feel unprepared or are afraid you’re going to miss something, enlist the help of a friend who has been through a couple of apartment searches. Also, take a look at how the apartment complex feels during daytime versus the nighttime. While an apartment may look great in sunny conditions, a rainy day may reveal roof problems. The same goes for different seasons and weather conditions. Look at the apartment complex multiple times at different times of day : An apartment or the complex can look one way in the morning and another in the afternoon. If there are multiple reviews referencing a roach problem and the dates span more than a few weeks, you can be fairly certain the building has a roach problem. The thing to look for is repeated offenses. Read reviews : Looking at reviews can be a tricky ordeal but can be very beneficial. Ask both the manager and other residents what the average cost of utilities is in the area. Utilities and possibly other fees come into play and could make what seems like an affordable apartment the exact opposite. Look at floor plans : While they don’t provide a full picture, a floor plan can help eliminate apartments that aren’t suited for your lifestyle.Īverage utility costs : While the cost of rent can seem affordable, it is not the total cost. Some apartment properties only allow certain types of pets or certain sizes, and some charge pet fees based on what type of pet you have. While newspaper postings may seem sketchy at this day and age it is important to remember that some apartment managers prefer to be selective.Īsk about pet regulations and fees : If you have a pet, it is very important you ask about rules regarding pets and if there are any associated fees. Look in the newspaper : The newspaper still publishes apartment listings and often features a fair number that aren’t posted online. Use your network : The people you know may be able to tell you about great apartments that are recently vacated as well as serve as recommendations if they live in the rental property you found an apartment in. Before even looking at apartments draw up a list of apartments that are affordable and offer what you need. Only look at those within your budget : Looking at apartments that aren’t within your budget is a misuse of time. Here are a few things to consider while planning your first apartment hunt. Whether there are many or few apartments for rent in the areas you’re looking to live, it can be a hassle to go through them if you don’t have a plan. Looking at rental properties day in and day in Phoenix or Las Vegas out can be exhausting if you don’t know how to go about it the right way.
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