Apartment Hunting Tips

Apartment hunting isn’t an exact science, but it has become a fairly normal occurrence and even the most inexperienced hunters should make sure to have some prior knowledge before starting the search. Whether you are looking for your first apartment, moving onto something else, or helping a friend find their dream home; the tips provided below should allow for a smoother process.

Set a Budget

One of the first tips you must follow before you begin to hunt for an apartment is to set a budget. You should never go on an apartment hunt without one, as this makes narrowing down the process more difficult and could land you in some financial issues down the road. Determine what you can afford monthly and make sure you account for utilities, groceries, insurance, gym memberships, and any other activities in which you take part that require a fee.

Organize the Search

Take some of the stress out of apartment hunting with a properly organized seach. Consider creating a spreadsheet that contains pertinent information about every apartment you either wish to tour or have toured, or both. This includes the address of the building, the name of the building, the unit numbers, the price, the number of bedrooms, the contact info, pros and cons, and the status (if you have visited, plan to visit, have called or emailed).

What to Bring

Many apartment hunters don’t realize what they should bring with them when touring their potential homes. Even though the lease might not be finalized right then and there, it’s always good to come prepared. You should always make sure to bring a notebook and a pen with you to write down information you learned about the property along your tour. You will also need to have your ID. Consider bringing the information of prior landlords and employers, and possibly a copy of your credit report.

Hunt with Your Roommate

Do you currently live with someone? Will they live with you in the new apartment? Do you plan to move in with someone different in the new apartment? The reason for these questions is that you should bring your intended roommate with you when searching for an apartment. It’s only fair that each roommate has the opportunity to look at every apartment option before making a decision. If everyone tours the apartments together, it will save time on the search and make the discussion on the final decision much easier.

Questions to Ask

The most successful apartment hunting excursions include you asking a host of different questions intended for the landlord, realtor, or whomever is showing the property. Some key questions you should ask include the following:

• Is there an income requirement?
• What is the term of the lease?
• Is a cosigner permitted on the lease?
• Does the unit have laundry or is it somewhere else in the building?
• Are pets allowed?
• How many applications have been submitted?
• What utilities are included?
• How are utilities paid?
• What storage space is available either in the unit or in the building?

Are you preparing to apartment hunt in New Jersey? Contact Brightstar Realty at 973-226-4900 today to speak with our team about your apartment needs. We will gladly help you find a new apartment in the tri-state area that you will be proud to call home.