How to Find the Perfect Apartment to Rent

Whether you are about to move out of your parent’s home and live on your own for the first time or you are moving to a new area, you need to be prepared before starting your apartment hunt. Trying to find the perfect apartment to rent can become quite a difficult and stressful process, but it doesn’t have to be. Many real estate brokers claim that the real secret is to plan ahead. 

Here are 7 tips for finding the perfect apartment to rent in your area: 

1. Plan Ahead

It is recommended that you begin your apartment search at least 60 days before your move to find the best options, deals, and neighborhoods. Typically, the best rentals (in terms of amenities, location, and price) go earlier in the month so it is important that you don’t wait too long. Starting your search on the first weekend of the month is usually less competitive with fewer apartment hunters taking tours; the second and third weekends of the month tend to be the busiest. 

2. Determine Your Budget

One of the most important factors when it comes to apartment hunting is your budget. Your budget will need to include the monthly rent, all utilities, groceries, and any additional move-in costs that you expect. Don’t forget about your other monthly payments that you also need to consider, such as phone bills, internet, credit cards, gas, and more. 

It is recommended that your rent payments stay under 30% of your monthly income. This will allow you to save and plan for your other monthly expenses. When you have a set budget in mind for your new apartment, you won’t risk putting yourself in a situation of considering an apartment that is way beyond the price that you can afford.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Whenever you are viewing an apartment, ask as many questions as you can during the walkthrough. Some common questions that you should ask your property manager include the following: 

• How do I request a maintenance order?
• Does the property charge extra for pets?
• Does the property charge extra for parking?
• What are the trash collection policies?
• Are utilities included in the rent?
• Does the apartment have laundry hookups? If not, is there an on-site laundry room?
• Are there income requirements? If so, do I need a guarantor?

4. Prepare Documentation

Once you have found your dream apartment, all that is left to do is gather the necessary application documents and submit them to the landlord or the rental company. 

Necessary documents typically include:

• Tax returns from the previous year
• Receipts for rent payments from the last year
• Proof of identity (ID, Passport, etc.)
• 3 most recent pay stubs
• 3 most recent bank statements 
• Proof of monthly income from your current employer
• References 

5. Inspect the Apartment 

Any time you are viewing an apartment, make sure that you check for anything that the landlord may want to hide. Check the tops of shelves and inside cabinets for any animal droppings. Check to ensure that the water from the sink and shower runs clear. It is also recommended that you bring a phone charger or other device with you to ensure that the outlets work properly. There are many times when these issues get swept under the rug. Do yourself a favor and check the apartment thoroughly. 

You will also want to be sure that you take pictures of anything that needs to be fixed before moving in. In addition, it is recommended that you take note of any of the following issues: 

• Lighting / Missing Light Bulbs
• Water Pressure
• Tile or other places that need caulking
• Mold
• Sticky Locks
• Heater Placement

6. Read Online Reviews

There are some apartment complexes that are known for their bad practices and/or policies. Thankfully, most people are extremely vocal online when they find something that they really love or something that really upsets them. Whenever you are apartment hunting, make sure that you Google the company and read reviews from previous tenants to gather background information before your tour. 

7. Get Renter’s Insurance 

While renter’s insurance is a choice for some, the majority of landlords require that their tenants get renter’s insurance. This not only helps cover your landlord if you damage the property, but it also covers the losses in case someone breaks into your apartment. On the bright side, renter’s insurance is rather affordable. While it can vary depending on location, amount of coverage and amount of rent paid, on average, you can expect renter’s insurance to be around $12 to $15 per month.