When you are choosing an apartment for the first time it can be very stressful. It can be a life changing decision so doing all you can to make sure you are choosing the right apartment is important. I just recently moved into my first apartment and already I can say I wish I would have done more research on it before signing a lease with them. Here are a few tips I wished I followed a bit more before choosing my first apartment.
Reviews.
https://images.app.goo.gl/7Hqcbe7fXFk8PNLi8
Read reviews. Read reviews form all kinds of websites like Yelp and apartment websites. Even ask friends. The more information you have on the place, the better.
Perks!
https://images.app.goo.gl/rPsij8m1xjNHc6sh6
Ask yourself what matters most. Amenities can make an apartment seem much more desirable. You may be willing to pay more for these resources, but be honest with yourself. How often will you really go swimming or cook out or work out? Not every place is going to have every single thing you want, but if they match up well enough, it might be a good fit for you.
Tours.
https://images.app.goo.gl/iTpctVX9a8qmFf1o6
Check the place out. Don't just rely on those websites or your friends. Don't rely on website photos either. Those can be deceiving. You need to know what the place looks like, now. Notice how they take care of their property. Is the grass mowed? Is trash overflowing? Are the walkways and hallways clean, well lit, and safe? And what is the vibe of the surrounding area? These things will matter later.
Hold them to their promise.
https://www.123rf.com/photo_103508262_broken-promises-and-breached-agreement-dishonesty.html
Be straightforward. Don't be afraid to call them out when they aren't holding up their end of the deal. If the place is run down and not what they advertised, say that. Now I'm not saying get into a huge argument and insult them, but make it clear this isn't what you were presented and you aren't happy. Don't sign a contract until you know what you're really getting.
Cost Cost Cost!!
https://images.app.goo.gl/2sysSZCxPGmLo1mx8
Check out the total cost. It's pretty obvious, but price is always a factor. How much is the price per month? Is there an application fee? Will they waive that for you? Is there a security deposit? Can you avoid that by having a guardian co-sign? Are utilities like electricity, water, trash removal, and cable/internet extra or included? Does it cost to park or have a pet? Are there other fees? The total costs could make a more expensive apartment cheaper if other bills are included.
Where is it?
https://images.app.goo.gl/23osUnUNz2EcKxJv9
Location, location, location. Think about where the apartment is located relevant to important areas for you. So, how far away is it from campus? Do the busses run late at night to get you back from meetings or the gym? How far is it from the city bus so you can get to the store? Are there good paths for walking or biking? A great location will make your life much better.
Do the work ahead of time, and you'll save yourself headaches in the future. Make it feel like a home away from home.
