Finding an apartment is a problem that’s often accompanied by a good deal of stress and anxiety. Not only because of what it takes to actually move all of your stuff, there’s also the issues of availability and compatibility.
This article will address some of these concerns, by outlining a few tips for finding good apartments easily – regardless the city you live in.
Find An Apartment Reasonably Close To Work
The reasoning here is clear: you always want to be able to get to work on time – even in the event of traffic. Think about those days when you’re running late; if your workplace is 40 minutes away, this complicates things tremendously.
If you’re in the Alexandria, Virginia area, for example, then Alexandria apartments that are close to downtown DC are viable options for the working professional. Additionally, these apartment complexes allow you to maintain a better work/life balance with a slew of amenities on the premises – fitness centers, pools, underground parking and more.
Keep In Mind Who Your Neighbors Will Be
Most of us have been in an apartment complex where the incessant thump of footsteps from playing children in the apartment above have rumbled into the night. If you’re a working professional, you might want to avoid apartments dominated by young families.
Additionally, inquire about the general age range of other residents. If there are a lot of college students, then you may have many sleepless nights as small get-togethers tend to grow to large ones throughout the semester. Aim for a demographic that approximates your lifestyle.
Make Sure Pets Are Allowed
There are many apartment buildings that allow pets. However, bear in mind you might be required to pay a bit more in order to keep them on the premises. That extra money is intended to cover the damages pets are prone to causing.
No matter how well-trained your pet is, chances are it will chew and scratch the rugs, walls, compex-provided upholstery and more. Usually, animals of the larger variety won’t be allowed, so if you have a St. Bernard, you could be in for quite the apartment hunt before you find one that will accommodate your furry friend.
Look At The Amenities
Apartment buildings in high-volume areas are renowned for the amenities they offer; the competition with other unit-owners vying for your service is what has caused this surge.
For example, if you’re in California and you rent The Village apartments in San Jose, CA, then you’ll be treated to a tanning rooms, a fireside spa, yoga studio, atrium pool, tech centers, library and many more. The place is almost like a small university with all of the extras they offer to the residents.
During your search, look for the kinds of things you want specifically; if you’re a handball enthusiast, then you’ll need that amenity. Avoid apartments with amenities you don’t plan on using – the cost goes into your rent, despite the fact that they’re marketed as “extras.”
Inform Yourself On How The Utilities Are Paid
This is important in apartment complexes because some of them spread the cost over all the units in the building. However, if you generally use less gas than most people, this will cost you more than if you had your own meter. This, and other utility expenses, is the single most important thing to consider when it comes to paying the bills at the end of each month, as it can really drain your finances.
