Hunting for the right apartment can be a tiresome task. It can take quite some time to find the right one to suit your needs. There will also be occasions when you will not be successful in getting the apartment you have been looking for. It can be a very nerve-racking time. In this article, we will consider eleven tips on how to find the right apartment.
Narrow Your Search Down
Keep your search down to certain areas will help you to get through the process easier. You will then be able to view several apartments all in one go. Only look at your ideal locations. Choose locations wisely. Keep in mind the things that you need the most such as: access to public transport, supermarkets, and schools. If relocating to another city, walk around your desired locations. This will give you a good feel about them.
Come Up With Three Highest Priorities
Your budget really should be the number one priority. The rest is up to you. These might include: being close to schools, or work, or close to public transport. Perhaps you would like a dishwasher in your apartment. If three is too difficult to come up with, write down everything you can think of then take things off until there are three.
Keep A Comparison Checklist With A Record Of Several Listings
When viewing many apartments in one go, they will eventually run together. Store all relevant information on one checklist. If you can, take a photograph of every apartment you view to keep with your records.
Have Everything Ready To Go
Always be ready to fill in all of the required paperwork. Understand that a deposit will have to be made. A lease will also have to be signed. Do this before you view any apartments. Take everything you need with you in case you decide to go ahead and fill out a standard rental application.
Search For Hidden Fees
Have a thorough understanding of what you will be signing up for. Look past the rent. Ask important questions. These may include: Are any utilities included? Do you have to pay for parking or building amenities?
Use Your Senses
Use all senses when viewing new places. Look out for strange smells or lack of natural light that might be there. This can make a huge difference. The best time to view apartments is during daylight hours.
Be A Little Nosy
Have a look in cupboards, pantry, and any storage places in the apartments. Run taps and showers to check what the water is like and if they are working well. Look under sinks and other places for mold. It is best to be aware of any potential issues now before proceeding further with your applications.
Develop Techniques For Effective Searches
Always search for apartments on the internet. Get in touch with local real estates. Pay attention in all kinds of places where you might find advertisements for apartments.
Negotiate
If you have a good background and character references, and want to stay in one place for a long time, negotiation is often possible. Most landlords do not lower rent, but it is possible they can extend your stay, or make improvements to your apartment.
Measure Your Furniture
Take a tape measure when viewing new apartments. Keep measurements of important furniture you want to take with you to your new place. You want your things to be able to fit into your apartment.
Keep Everything In Writing
If your landlord has promised to fixed something, or has said you can have a pet, be sure to get these things in writing. This way, you will have prove if your landlord changes their mind later on or you get into an argument. This will prevent miscommunication and other difficulties.