Finding the perfect apartment or
townhouse can be a challenge for anyone, but especially for those who are new
to renting. First time renters can
become discouraged in competitive markets.
Beginners may overlook some basic apartment features since they haven’t
experienced the struggles of searching for parking or visiting the laundromat. Most
renters have been wooed at least once by an impressively staged apartment only
to realize disadvantages as they move forward with the contract details. If potential renters follow a few basic
guidelines they’ll find a comfortable space and be satisfied throughout the
length of their lease.
1. Limit Locations
One of the most difficult things about renting for the first
time is the sheer number of options.
Although availability varies by location, most renters become inundated
by the numerous possibilities on HotPads, Zillow and Craigslist. Try to focus the search by narrowing the
number of locations. Choose one or two
primary locations to search for properties.
Cost is usually a good determining factor. Select areas that are affordable, safe and
accessible. Make sure the commute to
work, friends and family will be feasible. When potential renters narrow down
their ideal locations, their apartment search becomes more productive.
2. Prioritize
Must-Haves
Make a list of must-have features prior to viewing any
properties. Contemplate day-to-day lifestyle;
how vital is a dishwasher, bathtub, deck, lawn, quart yard, natural light or
in-unit washer and dryer? Renters need
to prioritize pet-friendly locations if they have animals and properties with parking
spaces if they own a car. Consider the
minimum room dimensions to comfortably fit the size of bed being moved. Some renters who are downsizing may require
onsite storage. Lastly, perspective
renters should prioritize the maximum rent they are willing to pay to get all
of their ideal features. This list will
help renters keep perspective and easily compare their favorite properties to
make a final decision.
3. Be Competitive
Now that the search is narrowed down and the list of
priorities is in writing, potential renters should begin viewing spaces. It’s important to be available when landlords
are willing to show the property. The
renting process is generally first come first serve, pending background, credit
and reference checks. The sooner the
potential renter can view the property, the sooner he can claim it with a
deposit. The longer the renter waits,
the more opportunity competitors have to get the unit. If renters plan to live with roommates, they
should all view the spaces together for immediate group decision-making. Renters should be prepared to pay a
non-refundable deposit at the viewing to hold the space. Locate printable applications on the
landlord’s website, fill them out ahead of time and show up prepared to pay the
deposit. If renters need co-signers,
make sure the applications are prepared and consider bringing the cosigner to
the viewing.
4. Research
Transportation
When visiting the property, ask the landlord about
transportation and traffic. For renters
who use public transportation, investigate the available options around the
property. If there aren’t accessible buses,
light rail, trains, park and rides or trolleys then the property may not be
ideal. Difficult commutes can be a deal
breaker. Make sure to get as much
information from the landlord while viewing the property. If parking is not available on site, then
potential tenants should look into local parking permits. Once renters have experienced walking several
blocks on a rainy night with bags of groceries they understand the value of
onsite parking. Consider these
transportation restrictions before paying a deposit.
5. Check for Pets
Renters should be informed of the pet rules on the property
before paying a deposit. Renters without
pets should consider the drawbacks of living in a pet-friendly building. Some pets can be very loud, they track
moisture and mud indoors and they soil the lawn with feces. If renters are pet owners, then it’s
important to disclose their animals to the landlord. Each landlord will have separate fees and
regulations for pets. Renters should be
prepared to pay pet damage deposits, pet fees and sometimes even pet rent. Oftentimes, there are size or breed
restrictions for dogs. All of these
rules are important to be aware of before paying the non-refundable deposit.
6. Clarify Rent
Itemization
Renters should find out if any utilities are included in the
cost of rent. Some apartments seem like
a good deal until it’s discovered that water, sewer and garbage are not
included. It’s discouraging to sit down
to sign a lease and find out the monthly charges are going to cost an additional
$200. Be sure to discuss all of the
charges before paying a deposit on the property. Ask the landlord directly about water, sewer,
garbage, electricity, parking, storage units, pet fees and insurance. All of these additional living costs add up
quickly and it’s best to be prepared for the true monthly cost of living.
7. Negotiate
Concessions
Negotiate deals prior to signing the lease. If the property is already reasonably priced
and the market is highly competitive, then set the expectation low. However, in many cases renters can negotiate
a reduced rent or deposit, a second parking space or even a free storage
unit. Landlords are more willing to
negotiate with renters who have good credit, as it reduces the landlord’s risk.
As long as renters set an appropriate
expectation that negotiations may not be successful and are willing to pay full
price, then it doesn’t hurt to ask.
8. Walk Through
Thoroughly
Once the lease is signed, the tenant and landlord will often
walk through the property together to note all of the damages. This part of the renting process protects the
renter and should be taken seriously.
Any small damages present prior to moving in should be written out in
detail on the walk-through form. If the
small damages are not noted, the tenant may be charged for them upon moving
out. Some landlords pay close attention
to the minute details, while others overlook them. There is no harm in being overly nitpicky
about these details. New renters should
look closely for carpet stains or tears, bent blinds, dents in the walls or
ceiling and chips in the countertops or flooring. Tenants should be descriptive about the specific
location and size of such damages. Being
meticulous at this stage will prevent stipulations upon moving out and should
save the tenant money.
If new renters are hesitant or overwhelmed by the process of
finding an apartment, simply follow these eight tips and settle into a
comfortable living space.
Author's Bio: Tali Wee currently lives in Seattle and blogs about
life in the northwest. She owns
WeePicketFences.com where she writes about being a bargain hunter, foodie and
DIY enthusiast. Tali enjoys family,
food, travel, writing and spending time on projects around the house.