Searching for a new apartment can be a lot of fun, whether you’re moving to a different region, or eyeing that promising new complex that just opened in the hottest part of the city. Before you get too mesmerized by the ultramodern exterior or enticing ads, do your homework. You wouldn’t buy a car without test-driving it, so you need to tour any apartments that appeal to you as a possible future home. Renting after a virtual tour may have worked during the pandemic, but now you can (and should) schedule an in-person visit. Schedule an appointment with the property manager and be thorough, don’t let them rush you through the unit while pointing out the highlights of the property.
Here are some pointers for finding the right apartment, whether it’s a new build or a floor in a quaint vintage shirtwaist home. (P.S., take a tape measure and take plenty of photos.)
Read reviews
Reviews are telling. Usually, they address maintenance response and overall management. If it’s a brand-new property, look for other apartment communities managed by the same company and read those reviews. You sometimes have to take these reviews with a grain of salt, but repeated complaints and themes are red flags.
Doors, windows, and security
Check to make sure all the doors and windows in the unit open, close, and lock properly. Are the screens secure? If it’s a security building, do residents have a key fob or code? Is there a clearly marked fire exit? Also, make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working in the apartment and common areas.
Parking
Is there assigned parking or do you have to park on the street? Parking in an apartment community is an important aspect to consider since close access to your apartment is a security consideration. Also, ask about snow removal. How often and how promptly are snow and ice removed from the parking lot, sidewalks, and common areas?
Electricity and Lighting
Take your phone charger and test all the outlets in the rooms to make sure they work. Check out the overhead lighting. It is important to know if you have ample lighting or will need to supplement with floor and table lamps.
Kitchen
Open the refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, and oven to see that they are clean and functional. Turn on the sink and look underneath for signs of leaks or rust. Verify that there is plenty of storage space for all of your kitchen supplies.
Bedrooms and living areas
Measure these rooms to ensure that your furniture will fit. Look at the blinds for tattered slats and see if they open and close properly. Check the closets to make sure they are of adequate size. If there isn’t enough closet space, ask if there is on-site storage available.
Bathroom
Again, check all the water features to ensure that they run properly and that they aren’t leaking or dripping. Flush the toilet, run the shower, and make sure everything is in proper working order.
Look around the apartment and common areas for signs of wear and tear and if you notice any evidence of insects or rodents. While you are there, check out the noise levels and overall cleanliness.
These are just a few suggestions. As always, follow your gut. If something looks off or you feel uncomfortable, don’t entertain signing a lease, and don’t succumb to pressure from the apartment manager or leasing agent. You don’t want to be locked into several months or a year in a place where you won’t feel comfortable. Take your time, do your homework, and you will find the ideal apartment where you be safe and comfortable and feel right at home.
Explore a Vision Community Apartment
At Vision Communities, our goal is to provide you with the living space you need to thrive. Our floor plans are spacious and bedrooms come with spacious closet space. Our property management teams work hard to create living spaces that are headache-free and places you’ll want to come home to. We have floor plans that provide your personal space and spacious common areas for you to hang out with your roommate and friends. 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.