Looking for a new apartment can be both exciting and stressful. So if you’re a bit conflicted about the next few weeks ahead, we completely understand and we’re here to help. Here are some apartment hunting tips and tricks that will only make things easier on you.
Clear Budget
Having a clear budget is important for multiple reasons. Not only does it help you stay within your financial means, but it makes shopping for an apartment so much simpler. Don’t waste your time filtering through apartments that you can never afford. Instead, be efficient and only view ones that you are real options for you. Trust us, your time is best spent this way and you reduce the chance of missing out on an amazing deal.
Narrow Down a Location
When it comes to relocating, location is everything. Where you decide to live can be the difference between feeling safe and secure and being in danger. It could mean an easy 10 minute walk to work or being stuck in traffic for an hour each way. Find an area that you like and stick to it without compromise. Narrowing down a specific area where you want to move gives your search clear direction and helps you stay focused.
Define Must Haves
What are the things that you absolutely can’t live without? For some, it’s a dishwasher to make cleanup easy after cooking a huge meal and entertaining family and friends. For others, it’s a washing machine and dryer combo in unit to do laundry without leaving the apartment. No matter what you define as your non-negotiables, make sure that you only search places that include them. One of the main goals of moving is to increase happiness. To achieve this, don’t be flexible on the things you consider must haves.
Use Your Network First
Before the massive internet search and hiring a local realtor for help, don’t forget to use your network as you search for apartments. Sometimes, the word of mouth method can be the most effective of all. Maybe one of your coworkers is moving out of a great place and the landlord is looking for someone to replace them ASAP. Or perhaps a friend of yours recently relocated to a brand new condo building that’s affordable and has vacancy. If you don’t ask around, you won’t know! Feel free to post on Facebook or social media apps for advice from friends as well.
In Person Visits
Trust us on this one. No matter how great a listing looks online, make sure you do visit apartments or homes that you’re interested in yourself. Virtual tours and beautiful photos can be misleading. Before you sign any paperwork and agree to a lease, do whatever it takes to see it with your own eyes.