Apartment hunting isn't as easy as finding the right price and location. Use these items as a comprehensive checklist about neighborhoods, apartment features, and lease agreements.
For many people, choosing an apartment is the first step away from the shelter of living at home or in regulated dormitories. Even though an apartment may seem temporary because of the monthly payments, selecting a place to live should be a carefully considered decision. Knowing what to look for in an apartment, including the surrounding neighborhood, the unit itself, and the lease agreement, helps new tenants choose the apartment that suits their needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Choosing an Apartment: The Neighborhood
The first step in choosing an apartment is to evaluate its neighborhood. For a complete picture, try to observe the neighborhood not only during the day, but also in the evening, at night, and on weekends, because factors such as traffic and noise level can vary widely at different times. Walking around the area or driving through several adjoining blocks can deliver a profile that may influence whether or not it is the right neighborhood for you. Check for the following items:
- Distance to necessary services (bank, post office, grocery store, gas station, etc.)
- Length of commute to work or school
- Traffic density and potential problems (stop lights, blind corners, etc.)
- Availability of public transportation
- Children and families in the area
- Noise level from traffic and people
- Litter and road debris
- Stray animals
- Nearby businesses
- Community features (parks, fire station, etc.)
Everyone has different tastes and tolerances for neighborhood conditions. Observing these factors helps determine what life is like in the area so you can decide whether or not to research local apartments.
Choosing An Apartment: The Residence
When you find the perfect neighborhood, the next step is investigating apartments. What looks spectacular outside may not measure up inside, and apartments that appear less desirable from the street may actually offer great deals and choice amenities. Whenever possible, try to view the exact apartment you will be renting, because many problems cannot be determined from the floor plan or layout of a similar unit. When investigating the apartment, take note of as many of these items as possible:
- Unit size, remembering that it looks bigger when empty
- Proximity to office, dumpster, and complex entrance and exit
- Adequate cupboard space for food and utensils
- Appliances are adequately sized and in good condition
- Brightness and condition of interior and exterior lighting
- Clear water from all faucets without leaks or drips
- Adequate water pressure, especially for showers, when multiple faucets are used
- Hot water heater is functioning and does not cool off quickly
- Balcony or patio railing is secure
- Cleanliness, smell, and lighting in entryways and common areas
- Number and location of electrical outlets
- Smoke detector functions
- Fire extinguisher, if provided, is charged and inspected
- Windows easily open and close
- Adequate closet space, doors open and close, and shelves are sturdy
- Cable, phone, and computer hookups are appropriate and easy to access
- Parking lot or garage is clean and well-lit
- Neighbors' balconies or patios are clean
- Noise level is unobtrusive inside the apartment
- Heat and air-conditioning unit is operational and easily controlled
- Circulation vents easily open and close
- Door locks and alarms provide adequate security
- Doorbell works, if applicable
- Blinds are in good condition and easily open and close
- Kitchen and bath are free from dry rot or water damage
- Tile and linoleum is not buckled, warped, or ripped
- Toilets, sinks, and tubs are free from rust or other stains
- Carpeting is not stained, ripped, frayed, or torn
- Walls and ceilings are free from stains, cracks, or holes
- No signs of pests in cupboards, closets, or behind or underneath appliances
If you find significant problems, you can either choose another apartment or insist on sufficient maintenance before your lease begins. While all the problems may not be able to be fixed, noting them on an opening inspection or checklist helps protect you from incidental charges when you vacate the apartment.
Choosing An Apartment: The Lease
The lease is the rental agreement between the property owner and the tenant. It outlines responsibilities, rules, and other considerations for both parties, and it is imperative to read the document thoroughly before signing. You must be familiar with your rights and know what the management is responsible for because violations could result in fines, eviction, or legal action. When previewing a lease, look for these clauses:
- Length of lease (month-to-month, 6-, 9-, or 12-month, etc.)
- Amount of rent and how much it will increase annually
- Late fines or fees if rent is not paid on time
- If subletting is permitted, especially if college students are renting
- Office, maintenance, and security hours and telephone numbers
- Number of roommates permitted
- Pet restrictions and fees
- What utilities may be included in the rental fee and what overage charges exist
- Procedures for lost keys or changing locks
- Community rules such as pool or other facility use, quiet hours, and parking permits
- Availability of community programs
- Security provisions for late hours and whom to call with a problem or violation
- Maintenance responsibilities of management and tenant
- Amount of security deposit and when it is returned
- How to terminate the lease and what fees are involved
Not every clause may be addressed in a standard lease, but do not hesitate to ask questions about any missing item or what you do not understand. A lease is a legal obligation, and you must understand that obligation in order to see it through.
By considering many factors both inside and outside an apartment, new tenants can find a comfortable, enjoyable place to live. The extra research will be well worth the effort for personal satisfaction, security, and happiness. Residents will get far more than a place to live - they sign up for a home, sweet home.
