Apartment hunting is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. Luckily, there are some tips that you can follow to make the process easier.

Keep the future in mind. If you plan to start a family or expand your work, ensure the apartment has enough space.

Look at the Amenities

Apartment amenities are anything that a building or unit offers beyond the basic needs of a functional apartment. This could include features like a pool, gym, or clubhouse that add comfort or convenience to living in an apartment.

During an apartment search, amenities can be a huge draw when deciding where to move. However, it can take time to determine what apartment amenities are worth paying for. 

Troy is a busy and diverse town in upstate New York which you can consider when searching for apartments. Its downtown is a beautiful culture hotspot, and the town hosts local events regularly to boost business for small businesses and residents. Apartments in Troy NY have a vibrant social scene and are reasonably priced.

Knowing what amenities are available before moving in is important to avoid being overcharged for utilities or services you don’t need or want if you’re a renter. 

Look at the Location

Knowing what you want and don’t want is important when looking for your dream apartment. For instance, if you’re not interested in living near a train station due to the constant rattling, or a neighborhood known for its high crime rate, that will narrow your search considerably.

You can also look at the proximity to your workplace and school and the area’s general vibe. For example, if you’re a fan of sunlight, consider looking for a south-facing apartment instead of a north-facing one.

Another thing to remember is that renting is often a temporary experience. Much like falling in love, many renters move into their dream apartment, swearing they will never leave, only to find that their circumstances have changed a year or two later.

Look at the Lease

Apartments are often listed and rented out in the blink of an eye, so you must move fast if you see your dream listing. Many buildings have online applications you can fill out quickly to take advantage of.

Before you sign on the dotted line, take the time to read through the lease carefully. This legal document covers everything from splitting bills to splitting overnight guests and decorating policies.

Apartment properties understand that first-time renters may have little rental or credit history, so they sometimes offer a way to meet you halfway by allowing you to have a guarantor sign on the lease. This is someone who could back you up if you cannot make your rent payments for some reason.

Look at the Pricing

Finding your dream apartment is a lot like falling in love. When you see it, you know. But make sure you’re not blind to the price tag.

Setting a budget before you start looking at apartments is a good idea. This will help you narrow down your search to only those that are feasible within your budget. A general rule is not to spend more than a third of your income on rent.

It would be best to consider how much you want to spend on utilities, parking, and security deposits. Our free worksheet breaks down these costs to help you determine an optimal budget. Also, keep in mind if you plan to grow your family in the future or if you want to live with roommates.

Look at the Convenience

If you’re looking for your dream apartment, consider how it will fit your lifestyle well. For example, if you plan on starting a family, finding an apartment with a little extra room to expand your home as your family grows would be best.

Convenience is also important to think about. Having your dream apartment near the subway or bus line can save you a lot of time, money, and stress when it comes to getting around.

It’s also worth considering the neighborhood’s reputation. Avoid living in an area that isn’t quiet or prone to crime. You can learn a lot about an apartment by talking to current residents.