Moving to a different state can be exciting but also overwhelming. You’re excited to start a new job or get a fresh start in another location, but being tasked with finding a new apartment in uncharted waters can be a challenge. Where do you begin? Thankfully, you can leverage technology to handle much of the legwork. But first, you need to do your homework to decide what you need (and want) in a new apartment. Also, keep in mind that there may be a major cost-of-living differential between where you currently live versus where you’re moving to. You’ll want to factor that into your moving budget.
Here are some tips and examples to help you find the best apartment possible in your new city.
Make a list of what you need in an apartment:
- Allows pets
- Preferred number of bedrooms
- Preferred number of bathrooms
- Proximity to work
- Floor location
- Balcony or patio
- Garage, covered parking, or parking lot
- Storage
- In-unit washer and dryer
- On-site management
- Smoke-free environment
- Are any utilities included in the monthly rent fee
- Security (locked entrance, doorman/concierge, key code)
- 24/7 and emergency maintenance
- Amenities (fitness center, pool, clubhouse, EV charging station, etc.)
Research neighborhoods and apartment complexes:
- Once you’ve pinpointed some interesting neighborhoods and potential apartment complexes, do a deep dive:
- Check crime statistics of local neighborhoods
- If you have children, gather information about local school districts
- Is there reliable public transportation in the neighborhood? Is it walkable?
- Use Google Maps, Google Streetview, and other resources to conduct a neighborhood tour and do some “walks“
Gather supporting documents you’ll need when applying for apartments:
- Credit report
- Proof of income
- References
After creating a shortlist of desirable apartments, it’s time to start applying and touring. If you are relocating for a job, your new company’s HR department should play a significant role in assisting you with the transition. Hopefully, your new employer will pay your moving expenses. If so, then follow their recommendations for moving companies and desirable neighborhoods.
If you are conducting in-person interviews with your new employer, use the opportunity to tour potential apartments while you are there. While it’s commonplace these days to tour apartments virtually, it’s always helpful to see them in person. Many virtual tours will highlight a model apartment that hasn’t undergone the usual wear and tear of rental properties. There may be shocking discrepancies between the pristine apartment you tour online versus the unit you’ll actually be living in. Don’t be disappointed. An on-site tour can also give you a sense of the property’s overall condition. You can check out the parking situation, amenities, security, and cleanliness, and get a glimpse of the neighborhood. You can see how close you’ll be to grocery stores, pharmacies, big box stores, restaurants, gas stations, and entertainment.
Once you’ve landed on a desirable apartment, apply soon, as desirable units may be rented quickly. If you find yourself facing a start date for your new job and you still don’t have an apartment, you may be able to live in an Airbnb until a new apartment becomes available. Rely on your new coworkers, along with any friends, relatives, and contacts you might have in your new location.
Apartment searching in a new city can be difficult, but it can also be an adventure. With careful planning, researching, and taking advantage of technology, you will soon find yourself living in an apartment where you’ll feel grounded and comfortable as you prepare to step into this new chapter of your life.
Explore a Vision Community Apartment
At Vision Communities, we create great communities where you can put down roots and live your best life. Our property management staff is here to manage all of the details that make 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 floor plans 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.