Buying a house is part of the American dream for many; however, it’s 2022 and real estate prices have skyrocketed. You don’t have to give up on a place to call your own though. There are many apartments available to fit your lifestyle and budget, so with a little time and a few tips you can find the perfect space for you.
When looking for an apartment, whether you’re thinking short-term or something a little more permanent, it’s important to write a list of what is most important to you. Amenities, size, parking, furnished… these are all things for you to consider.
Moving may seem daunting, but with these tips, your search may be easier than you thought.
1. Set a Budget
How much can you realistically afford for rent? This includes monthly expenses associated with your apartment; electricity, gas, perhaps a parking permit, water, trash, etc.
Many complexes include utilities such as water, trash, and parking, but some do not; especially those in a large city. So, these are important questions to ask during your search.
2. Location, location, location
Whether you’re moving to a new state, city, or across town, you’ll want to do some research on neighborhoods. The internet is a good start, but nothing beats a drive-through during both day and night, or at the very least a personal recommendation via friends, social media, or new colleagues at a job for which you’re moving.
Some things to consider about neighborhoods—are there close grocery stores, accessible parking for either you or both you and friends you may have over? Does it look and feel safe, especially if you are living alone? Is there a social scene close by? If you have children, are other kids around, is the school nearby?
3. Pets
Do they allow pets? If so, what are the requirements? Do they allow both cats and dogs, and is it just a pet deposit or extra rent every month?
These are important questions to ask as many apartments have a strict no pet policy, or at the very least a weight limit. It would be an unfortunate scenario to find the supposed perfect place and discover they won’t let your furry friend move in with you. This is something for you to include in your budget if they require extra rent for Buddy.
4. Make a list
Create a spreadsheet of places you want to see and make sure to include spaces for price, parking, amenities, pet allowance, neighborhood, and personal notes to jot down regarding each property.
5. Amenities
What amenities are the most important to you? Is it important to have a pool and/or hot tub, fitness center, laundry facilities or washer/dryer hook-up, covered parking or garage? If so, then you should consider looking at these apartments for rent in South Houston as you might find your next potential home.
6. Lease Requirements
What are their lease options—six-months, one year, month-to-month? This is a big question if you’re looking to start small and save money to move up, or perhaps you want something more permanent.
A little research goes a long way, and hopefully we’ve provided you with a few questions that perhaps you hadn’t thought about. Good luck on your quest in finding your perfect, or perfect-for-now, humble abode.
Photo by Monica Silvestre
