Leaving the nest and moving into your first apartment is an exciting time in anyone’s life. For many, it’s a rite of passage to move into a new place away from home and become independent. But finding the right apartment is another matter. Scrolling through hundreds of apartments on sites like Apartments.com and Craigslist can be overwhelming. What are you supposed to look for in an apartment anyway? Below are the features you should look for in your first apartment.
Pick Your Roommates
Don’t even begin to look for a new apartment until you know who you’re rooming with. Why? No matter how wonderful your apartment is, your experience will be colored by the sum of your experience with them. An ok apartment with quality roommates will be more fun than an amazing apartment with terrible ones. Don’t be afraid to be picky about the roommates you choose to live with—your best friends may not always make the cut. If you plan to live with friends, take note of how they take care of their room, their car, and their belongings. People who don’t take care of their things almost never take care of the common space. If you’re messy then you may not mind living in a mess with other people, but if you’re a neat-freak this may drive you mad.
Decide Your Budget
Decide now how much you can pay. As a rule, you shouldn’t pay more than about 25 percent of your income. Landlords typically make you prove that you and your roommates make a combined income of at least three times the rent. This might sound strict, but it’s in your best interest to stay within your means. Even if you get approved, consider your other payments like student loans, car payments, insurance, groceries, and other expenses.
If you’re on a strict budget, you’ll have to pare down your expectations of your apartment. This may mean anything from a change in location to adding an extra roommate to cover the costs. An apartment by the beach may seem like a dream, but the cost might be a nightmare. Check the average rent in Columbus, Ohio and see if it is within your means so you can enjoy where you live without sacrificing your lifestyle.
Pick the Right Neighborhood
Your neighborhood should be a top priority to choose an apartment. Decide between your roommates which neighborhoods suite your needs and lifestyle. Choose an apartment in close proximity to work or school. Remember that the farther away you live from work or school, the higher your transportation costs will be. Apartment costs are higher in the heart of a busy city, and costs lower the further you are. Find the sweet spot between work and home that’s neither too far nor too expensive. Look for neighborhoods close to freeways and public transportation.
Don’t forget about culture–living in an area that you enjoy is part of the package. Don’t sacrifice safety for convenience, and find a place that satisfies a little bit of everyone’s wants.
Consider Different Rentals
Look high and low for great deals and special offers. Large apartment complexes and small private rentals alike have their own perks, whether it be privacy, a pool, in-home laundry, or another unexpected luxury. Don’t be afraid to reach out to property managers if you see a complex you like but don’t see any available units yet.
Be Patient
Landlords often pressure candidates to make a decision right away, but allow yourself at least 24 hours to decide. When you do a walkthrough, go with your gut. Don’t choose a place just because it’s dirt cheap—rent an apartment that’s reasonably priced and provides at least the basics. If you need to move into an apartment immediately, consider subletting an apartment with roommates who already know the property. Once you pick your place, background checks will be a cinch. Landlords use online checks like Transunion Smartmove so you can move into your new digs faster.
Moving into your first apartment is a big step into adulthood. Follow these tips and you’re bound to find the right apartment for you.