When you’re looking for an apartment, rent is probably top of mind. Of course, you want to find a place where you can afford to live, but rent is only a small portion of what you need to be considering before you sign a lease. Many apartment dwellers, especially first-time renters, will jump at a place based on the price, then a few months into their lease, discover that they haven’t exactly landed on “home sweet home.” There may be maintenance issues or hidden fees that crop up that can put a damper on even the most enthusiastic renter.
Here are other factors to consider when searching for an apartment.
Location
Do your research on the location. Is it close to your work or school if you have children? You can research neighborhoods to find out about school districts and local commerce, such as proximity to grocery stores, pharmacies, and other retailers you frequent. More importantly, you can look up crime statistics for the area. You’ll want to pay close attention to property crimes, burglaries, as well as car break-ins and thefts. Drive by the apartment complex at night to see if the complex (especially the parking lot and entryways) is well-lit. You will also need to check out the streetlights.
Property Security and Parking
Does the apartment complex have a parking lot, or is there on-street parking only? How far will you have to walk from your car to your building? Check to see if the buildings have security doors that require a key, fob, or code for entry. You’ll want to make sure that the security door closes and locks securely behind you.
Appliances and Plumbing
Inside the apartment, check all the appliances to ensure they are clean and working. You should also turn on all faucets (kitchen and bathrooms) to see that they dispense hot and cold water with adequate water pressure. Flush the toilets.
Doors, Windows, and HVAC
Check all the doors and windows to see if they open and close easily and can be locked. Depending on the time of year, turn on the AC or furnace to make sure it works properly.
General Safety
Does the apartment have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors? Ask the property manager if they provide batteries or if replacement batteries are the resident’s responsibility.
Lighting and Outlets
Turn any lights on and off to make sure they work. If the apartment complex still uses cable for TV and internet, assess the location of the outlets. Note the location of electrical outlets, as it will help you with furniture and fixture placement.
General Overall Condition
Look at the condition of the flooring, carpeting, paint, and surfaces. Note any stains, peeling, or scuffs. You’ll want to document any deficiencies before you move in, to prove that you didn’t cause the damage. That will go a long way toward helping you get your deposit back when you move out.
Storage
Does the apartment have adequate closet space? Is extra storage available on the property, or will the residents need to look to an off-property solution?
Noise and Odors
While you’re touring the apartment, note the noise level. If the walls seem paper-thin, then noise may be an issue when the building is full. The same goes for odor. If you smell stale cigarette smoke or a damp or mildew smell in the apartment and common areas, that could signal an issue with water and mold.
Check References and Reviews
Before you make a decision, check the reviews of the property and the property management company online. There are many sources, including Google, Yelp, Apartment Finders, etc. Use your discretion when reading reviews, but if you read common complaints from different sources, heed them. Other red flags include not being able to tour the apartment before signing a lease, or a property manager who won’t let you test appliances, fixtures, etc., or doesn’t do an initial walk-through with you before you move in.
Conducting your own screenings when searching for apartments will save you trouble after you sign a lease. As you can see, when renting an apartment, there are many more considerations besides rent. When you do your homework, the odds are greatly improved that you will find a safe apartment, in good condition … and affordable.
Explore a Vision Community Apartment
At Vision Communities, we strive to create a community that you’ll be proud to call home. Our property management staff is here to manage all of the details that makes this a great place to live. Our spacious studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartment layouts provide cozy space. Check out our luxurious apartment floorplans in one of our communities and enjoy life at the VC.
Schedule a tour today and see why Vision Communities is a great place to live.