Is it difficult finding the right apartment?

Answer 1

If you go about it in the right way, it is not so bad. It does take some time and effort though. Best advice is to sit down and make a list of the features you want starting with the most general things and then getting down to the small stuff. Here are some examples:

How much can I afford to pay per month for rent?

How much can I afford for a security depost?

Which neighborhood do I want to live in?

Do I want most of the utilities included in the rent?

How much can I afford for utilities that are not included in rent?

Do I need, and can I afford to put up deposits for utilities?

How big an apartment do I need ... one, two, or three bedrooms?

Do I need appliances to be included?

Do I want a washer/dryer hookup or is there a common coin laundry area to all of the apartments?

Do I want ground floor or can handle upper floors and stairs?

Do I want an outdoor patio, porch, or balconey?

Do I want carpet or hardwood floors?

Do I need an apartment that allows pets, and can I afford the fees usually associated for them?

Do I need to be close to public transportation?

Do I need an apartment that is wired for cable TV?

Do I want an apartment with a central heating system controlled by the landlord, or do I want one where I control the temperature?

Do I want central air conditioning or will I settle for a window unit?

I'm sure you get the picture by now. The more you decide on before you start looking, the easier your physical search will be. Although there are lots of apartment search sites on the internet, it is tough to beat the classified ads in your local newspaper. You can look for apartments that fit the criteria on your list and begin with a phone call to get more information. This will save you a lot of leg work if you weed out unsuitable apartments before you actually go out and look at them.

Once you find what you want, make sure you get a written lease or rental agreement and take the time to read it before you sign it. If there is anything you do not understand or have a bad feeling about, check it out with your Attorney before you sign it. It may well be the best money you ever spend. If it were me, I would also talk to a couple of prospective neighbors before renting. They will usually give you honest opinions on the building, neighborhood, and the landlord. Doing this should give you a good idea of what to expect once you move in.

I know it seems like a lot to do, but all of the preparation will be worthwhile in the long run. People post questions here everyday about problems between tenants and landlords, and most of them could have been avoided had the tenant done their homework before renting.

Good luck with your search for a new apartment.

Answer 2

I think that it can be a tuff job, depening on where you want to live. If it is a really great area ive found it is much easier ...because your not looking in as much as your looking "out"..you know??.....Be patient and be diligent and you will find something just right for you!


PEACE