Figuring out what to look for in your new apartment is no easy task. There are so many aspects to consider, and when there’s a plethora of options on the market, it can be hard to narrow down what’s most important to you. Hopefully, this guide will help you get a better idea of what’s necessary for your next apartment and what isn’t.
Check Out the Neighborhood
Nobody wants to move into the bad part of town, but sometimes you don’t have that luxury due to price restraints or what’s available at the time of looking. The key thing to remember is not all sections of the bad area are all that horrible. Some neighborhoods might be better than you originally heard. Be sure to do your research before making a decision.
On the other side of things, even if you’re looking at the best apartment complex in the whole state, it might not be the best fit for you. The neighbors might be unbearable. The owners might nickel-and-dime you for every little thing that goes wrong. It could even have horrible construction nearby that will make you late for work every day. Many overlooked details could make a place that seems great be the wrong choice for you.
Ask About What’s Included
It’s a good idea to know what you’ll be paying for in your new apartment. The common things to ask about are electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi, but there are plenty of other things to consider as well. Find out if there are washers and dryers. If there are, ask if they are in-unit or communal. The same goes for parking. Figure out how many spaces you get, if they cost extra, and if there is guest parking. If you have pets, ask them what their policy is for them or if they’re even allowed in the first place.
These are some of the most important questions to ask. There are plenty of others that might be more relevant to you, so make sure you list them out and set aside some time to get them answered.
Find Something That Fits Your Style
When people ask friends and family what to look for in a new apartment, one thing that no one ever seems to suggest is to find something that fits your style. If you’re going to be paying a lot of money to live there each month, we would hope that it’s something that you enjoy living in. When searching, make sure you like the layout of the apartment. There are so many aspects to consider when looking at the floorplan.
If you can’t find the perfect fit for your style, ask the landlord what you can change. Chances are there won’t be too much you can change, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. Some apartment complexes don’t mind you making changes as long as you change them back when you leave. This can open a lot more opportunities for you if making changes is an option.