Eleven Things To Consider When Apartment Hunting
Hunting for an apartment can sometimes feel like a daunting task — especially right now. But with a little preparation, you can make the process smoother and even more exciting! Here are 11 things to keep in mind when apartment hunting.
1. Location
It’s true what they say: location is everything when choosing an apartment. While you may have your heart set on a certain neighborhood, be sure to check that the surrounding area has things you care about, like good public transportation options and amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and shopping centers. Also, consider if there are any areas that may be more prone to crime or other issues that could affect your safety or the safety of your belongings.
2. Price
Price is another factor that can’t be ignored when apartment hunting. Make sure you have a realistic idea of how much you can afford to pay for rent each month. Once you’ve established a budget, start looking for apartments that fall within your price range so you don’t fall in love with a place you can’t afford.
3. Size
When considering apartment size, think about how much space you’ll need and what kind of furniture you already have. If you don’t own a lot of furniture or plan to reduce the amount of furniture you have, a smaller apartment might be just fine. But, if you have a lot of stuff or plan to add any new pieces of furniture, you might want to look for a larger apartment.
4. Apartment Condition
Consider the condition of your potential new home when apartment hunting. It’s important to give the place a thorough examination to identify any signs of neglect or damage that could cause issues down the road. Also, take note of how well-maintained the building is overall. If it seems run-down or if there are a lot of repairs needed, it may not be the best option.
While an apartment might look bare when you first move in, it’s important to realize that you can spruce up the place and make it your own. So, don’t let superficial issues be deal-breakers when you’re apartment hunting — look for ways to make it better!
5. Ancillary Costs
Keep in mind that there are always going to be additional costs associated with renting an apartment. In addition to your monthly rent, you’ll have to pay for things like utilities (such as heat and water), internet, cable, and renters insurance. These costs can add up, so be sure to factor them into your apartment hunting budget. It’s also important to ask a potential apartment landlord or manager if any of these items are included in the cost of your rent or if you will be responsible for paying them separately.
6. Apartment Layout
When you’re looking at apartments, pay attention to the layout of each unit. Some apartments have an open floor plan, while others are divided into smaller rooms. Consider how you want to use the space and what layout would work best for you. For example, an open floor plan might be a good option if you like to entertain. But, if you prefer more privacy, a layout with smaller rooms might be better.
7. Amenities
Some apartments come with many amenities, while others have very few. When you’re apartment hunting, think about what amenities are important to you and make sure the apartments you’re considering have them. Often, these amenities are things like a swimming pool, fitness center, business center—or even a movie theater! Be sure to consider what amenities are must-haves and which ones don’t mean as much to you as you decide.
8. Noise Levels
If you’re a light sleeper or work from home, noise levels might be an important consideration when apartment hunting. If this is the case, try to find an apartment away from busy streets. Some apartments also have soundproof walls to help reduce noise levels. If you want to get insight into the noise volume before moving in, you can ask the current tenants about their experience or visit the area around the apartment at night to gauge the noise levels.
9. Pet Friendly
If you have pets, you’ll need to be sure to look for an apartment that allows them. Not every apartment does, and if you find one that does, make sure the location is pet-friendly. Some apartments might allow cats but not dogs, or vice versa. Some may even require tenants to pay a higher security deposit if they own pets. It’s worth asking the leasing agent or landlord about any pet restrictions and fees associated with owning a pet before signing a lease. You’ll also want to know what your renters insurance policy covers in the event your pet accidentally causes damage to the rental property. This is different from *pet insurance, which is a wellness plan that can protect you from costly vet bills in the event your pet gets injured or sick.
10. Parking
If you have a car, parking is probably an important consideration for your apartment hunt. Some apartments have a parking lot or garage for residents, while others require on-street parking. Be sure to ask about the parking situation before signing a lease to know what to expect.
11. Lease Terms
When you’re apartment hunting, familiarize yourself with the lease terms before signing anything. The lease will include the rental price, length of the lease, and any rules or regulations associated with living in the apartment. It’s important to know what you agree to before you sign a lease, so you don’t end up in a situation that’s not ideal.
Common Questions About Finding An Apartment
What Month Is Easiest To Find An Apartment?
Rental rates are typically at their lowest during the winter months because fewer people are looking for apartments. Many people prefer to move during the spring and summer when the weather is nicer, so landlords know they need to charge less for rent in the winter to fill vacancies.
Can You Negotiate Rent?
Rent can often be negotiated, but it depends on the market and the landlord’s current situation. If you see an apartment that you like and it’s within your budget, you may try to negotiate a lower rent price. You might also be able to negotiate ancillary benefits like parking, utilities, or other amenities. However, if the apartment is in high demand or the landlord is in a difficult situation, negotiations may not be possible.
What Is The Best Day To Move Into An Apartment?
Typically, it’s best to move into an apartment during the week because it’s not as busy as the weekend. A reduced amount of foot traffic means that there will be fewer people in the way as you move in. We recommend talking to your apartment complex or landlord to get their insight on the best day to move in, as it can vary from place to place.
How Long Are Apartment Leases?
Leases typically last for one year but can vary depending on the location. If you’re looking for a short-term lease, some places might offer leases six or nine months long, but they are also likely to charge you more for a shorter lease. If you’re confident that you will be staying in the rental for a long time, you might be able to negotiate a lower price for a longer lease.
Is Renters Insurance Important To Have?
During your apartment search, you may find yourself wondering how renters insurance works, especially if it’s an additional thing your landlord requires you to purchase. Renters insurance is important because it can help protect you financially in case of an emergency like a fire, theft, or other disaster. If something happens to your apartment and you don’t have renters insurance, you could be responsible for paying for all the damages out of pocket.
Renters liability insurance is vital for anyone renting a house or apartment — and your landlord may even require that you obtain coverage! It can help protect you financially and give you peace of mind if anything goes wrong. At Acceptance Insurance, our agents can help you find the best fit for your needs and budget.
If you are looking for renters insurance, get in touch with anAcceptance Insurance agent today to learn more, or visit our website to get a quick, free quote today!
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*Coverage may be excluded for pre-existing conditions, preventative, elective, and cosmetic procedures, and non-medical expenses.
