Do you need some assistance finding the right apartment? The popularity of apartment living has soared in recent years as more people look to rent rather than own.
Renting has many built-in advantages. Apartments are more convenient than a house when it comes to repairs and maintenance. As a renter, you don’t have to keep a bank account for repairs. Repairs and maintenance are the landlord’s responsibility. That takes a huge financial burden off you. Another advantage is lower monthly bills. Many landlords take care of the water, garbage and sewer bills. .
If you are in the market for a new place, think about your ideal apartment, about what amenities you’d like to have before starting your search.
START SEARCHING
Come up with a sensible budget and then narrow your search to only include apartments in that price range.
Tell your friends and colleagues you are looking for a new place to live, and what you’re looking for in an apartment. They may know of an available apartment in their building or complex.
Search the Internet, and local property management companies for apartment listings. Apartment search tools and real estate magazines can also be helpful. However, beware of paying large fees. Some agencies or websites will charge you money to look at their listings.
Local realtors or property agencies will usually steer you to legitimate landlords. Property owners pay an agency to list and rent their apartments and tend to be more reliable than some you may find using other sources.
If you are doing business with an agency, always check with the Better Business Bureau.
You can also view consumer complaints online.
THE INSPECTION
You found the perfect apartment, right? At least on paper. But, when you see it in person, it isn’t at all what you expected. Or it may appear to be everything you imagined, until you move in and find all kinds of problems. To protect yourself, make sure your initial inspection is thorough.
Arrive early so you can see the neighborhood. The surrounding area should be clean and safe.
Is there parking available? Even if you do not have a car, you may eventually get one. Plus, you may want a parking space or an area for visitors. Also, verify that the apartment is not adjacent to noisy venues or major roads that will make lots of noise at night.
Look at the building, including the roof, walkways and hallways. When you go inside the apartment, look to see if the carpet is clean. Are the appliances updated? Is there good lighting? Check the power, water pressure, and open and shut doors and cupboards to make sure they are all working properly.
Make a note of maintenance issues you find. Ask how the landlord cleans and preps the apartment between tenants.
Always look at security issues. Do the locks work? Do you need a key or access code to enter the building? Are there smoke detectors and do they work?
Consider the exterior of the building. Is the entryway near the mailboxes littered with mail, flyers and newspapers?
Decide what type of apartment you want and can afford, search for it, and then make sure you inspect it thoroughly before signing a lease. Rental agencies and realtors can help you through the process, while addressing any concerns you may have.
Photo by Ryan Franco on Unsplash
