How to Choose the Best Apartment

Finding the right apartment is stressful. Whether you are moving into your own place for the very first time or have moved many times as an adult, it can be a struggle to find the best apartment. You need to find a rental property that you can afford, but you also worry about factors such as neighbors, maintenance problems and location. The following steps will help you take some of the guesswork out of finding the perfect apartment.

Things You'll Need

• Budget
• Map of your town
• Markers
• Classifieds
• Apartment guides

Instructions

1. Determine your personal budget so that you know how much you can afford to spend on an apartment. Make sure you factor in costs such as renter's insurance and utilities. Most financial advisers recommend that you spend no more than one-third of your income on housing.

2. Buy or print a map of your city. Use a black marker to cross off any areas that you definitely do not want to consider. Use one color marker to circle your first choice of area or areas, a second for your second choice and so on. Do not forget to factor in transportation costs if an area is far from work, school or other places you need to go.

3. Start looking for apartments in the areas you have chosen. Check your local paper's classifieds, Craigslist and free apartment guides usually found at grocery stores and other locations. Ask friends and family members to be on the lookout for you as well. Make a list of some apartments you find in the locations you desire that are in your price range (see Resources below).

4. Research the apartments you have written down. Read reviews written by current and previous renters online. Check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the property management. Find out what amenities are offered. Note whether pets are allowed (if that is important to you). Check if there are washer/dryer hookups or on-site laundry rooms. Use this information to further narrow your list.

5. Contact and visit the remaining apartments on your list. View an apartment, and pay attention to the surroundings. Do both the exterior and interior look well-kept? Are there any broken-down vehicles in the parking lot or pieces of furniture near the dumpsters? If you have one place you particularly like, drive by after management office hours. Are there any seedy-looking characters looming about? Are people thumping loud music? If you see someone who looks approachable, stop and ask them how they like living there.

6. Read the lease carefully before signing. Finally, load up your belongings and move into your terrific new home!

Tips & Warnings

• If an apartment has amenities that will save you money such as an exercise facility (you can cancel your gym membership) or utilities included, it gives you more wiggle room in your rent budget.

• Don't let a leasing agent or apartment manager pressure you into renting an apartment. If you have doubts or question, get all of them answered before coming to a decision.

Resources

• Apartment Reviews