National Apartments - Apartment Hunting.

You’ve decided that renting’s for you, you want to move, you’ve created a budget and saved enough money to cover your basic moving expenses. Now you’re ready to move on to the search. This is where many people get frustrated, stressed-out and discouraged. With ApartmentStores.com’s top ten Apartment Hunting tips, your search can be more organized and less stressed.

Make a shopping list. Are you looking for hardwood floors, dishwasher, washer/dryer, fireplace etc.? You may not find everything but it doesn't hurt to set priorities. Keep in mind factors such as neighborhood/location and your price range.
Be prepared. Give yourself the edge over the next renter by familiarizing yourself with the documents/information Landlords request and having these with you. Landlords will be impressed by your organization and preparedness. You may also save yourself the application/credit check fee. Collect the following information to present to landlords/leasing agents:
- Credit check.
- Resume.
- Pay stubs/tax returns.
Get Excited! Get yourself ready for action. You will be making dozens of phone calls and leaving many messages. You should keep a log of these communications to stay organized. If your messages aren’t returned the next day, you should call again. You should be persistent, but friendly and respectful. Remember to stay focused and positive.
Cover your bases. Many landlords will want to verify your references. Phone ahead to alert possible references, including your former landlord, that they may receive a call.
Dress for Success. Dress and groom as though you are going to a job interview. In many respects it is the same. Landlords of really good units usually have their pick of several applicants. They are looking for:
- Someone both able and responsible enough to pay rent on time.
- People who will treat them and their property with care and respect.
- Quiet tenants who will not be disturbing to other tenant or neighbors.
Stick to Daylight. Try to see the units in the daytime. You’ll want to know how much natural light an apartment gets. It’s helpful to see what shape the place is in and whether more work is needed to make it habitable.
Be Thorough. Do a careful walk-through of any unit you’re seriously considering. The best time to ask about repairs and improvements is before you commit. Attach a list of any damage to the lease and have it initialed by your landlord so you’re not held responsible later. Make sure to ask questions:
- How’s the water pressure?
- How many electrical outlets and where are they placed?
- How big is the water heater?
- Is there enough closet space or will you need extra storage?
Meet Your Neighbors. Will you live above or below someone; do you share walls? Knock on doors and introduce yourself. Find out if neighbors are friendly, how they feel about noise and what they like about the neighborhood.
Does it Measure Up? Take measurements of your larger furnishings, and take along a tape measure when you go view apartments. Take measurements to see how your things will fit…or what things you’ll need to get rid of and then buy.
Visit Many Places. Try to view as many available rentals as possible, so you’ll have a good idea of how much apartment your money buys. Make sure to compare your options closely, and be prepared to act quickly when you find something you like. It’s helpful to carry your checkbook with you, so you can be ready to offer a deposit.