Searching for the best apartment to live in is an exciting adventure. You get to visit different apartments and also get to explore and discover new places in the neighborhood. But with the many choices out there, apartment hunting can be overwhelming. Knowing these steps will help you find the best apartment for your needs, whether you’re searching for a place for yourself or for your family.
Know your priorities. The first step involves determining the type of person you are, what you can afford, your home lifestyle, and what place you want to live in. If you’re a student or you work at home, you may want a quiet place where you can study, relax or do your job. If you’re mostly out of the house, either at work or have an active social life, you may want just a nice place to rest at night. If you want to be near your work or your child’s school, you can check out apartments in Austin that are conveniently located near schools or offices.
There are several factors that you have to consider. These include the rental price, distance, space or rooms available, safety (neighborhood, playing area for kids), convenience (near restaurants, gym, laundromat, grocery store, coffee shop), transportation, and pet-friendly (a nearby park where you can walk your dog) if you have pets. These things will direct you towards your priorities when apartment hunting.
Organize. Apartment hunting will involve a lot of brochures, applications, documentation, and references. Store or file them in one place so you’ll know where to find them when you need them. Take notes and pictures when doing ocular visits to different apartments and place all your notes in one notebook. This way, it will be easier to compare, especially when you’ve already visited several apartments.
Down payment. A down payment is usually required when renting. This usually includes the monthly rent for the first and last month as well as a security deposit. The security deposit will be returned to you once you decide to leave the apartment. Secure the down payment in your bank account and make sure you won’t spend it so that you’ll be ready once you’ve found the right apartment.
Be prepared. One thing that has to be clear in your mind is that you’re not the only one who’s apartment hunting. There are also other people out there who may have the same priorities or preferences as you do. So it is best to be prepared. Prepare any documentation that may be needed such as a letter of employment, pay stubs, tax returns, and the like. Make sure that all references and applications are ready and have already been filled up. Bring your checkbook with you as well so that if you find the right apartment, you can go ahead and write a check.
Check everything. Before you sign anything, make sure that you have conducted a thorough check-up of the entire apartment. This is a way for you to find out if there are any damages or maintenance issues left by the previous tenants that need to be taken care of prior to your moving in. Check that the lights, faucets, and the toilet flush are functioning properly. Be on the lookout as well for any signs of rodent or insect infestations and for any damages on the floors, walls, or ceiling. Power outlets, smoke alarms, safety equipment, appliances, as well as the locks on doors and windows should also be checked.
Knowing what to look for, where to look, and being prepared will help you in finding the best apartment that fits your needs. Just keep these steps in mind and happy apartment hunting. We’re looking forward to your housewarming!
