Just because you pay the rent, doesn’t make your house a home. It takes a disciplined budget and a lot of research to find a place where you feel you can really be yourself. The process of apartment hunting can be expensive, draining, and time-consuming. There are several tips you can follow if you plan on doing a thorough search whether you are looking for apartments for rent Minneapolis-located, or in another location.
Make a List
Make a wish list of all of the intangible and tangible things you’d like to have in your new apartment. Home means something different to everyone, so this list can be a bit personal. For example, if you have a disability, you may really want to aim for a building that has an elevator. Or, if you are living alone, you may prefer an area where there is not a lot of foot traffic during the night.
Whatever it is, highlight the things that stand out to you the most so you know what is not negotiable.
Tour the Apartments
Prior to committing to an apartment, make sure that you check out the apartments in person. It is perfectly fine to be picky when it comes to knowing and asking the property manager a lot of questions. It takes time to check out various properties, so allow yourself that time to make a thoughtful decision. Two months is a good head start.
Pay Attention to Your Budget
Remember that you will have to pay rent and utilities. In addition to those expenses, you may want to factor in rental insurance every month. There are also one-time fees such as security deposits, application fees, and move-in fees.
You can reduce these expenses by sharing your apartment with a roommate or negotiating a particular deal. If you do negotiate, make sure that you do your research and bring facts about the market to the table. Landlords may be more or less open to making a deal with you depending on the things that are important to them.
Read Fine Print
Don’t just sign your lease without actually reading it. A lease is a legal contract between a landlord and a tenant. It is the guiding principle you will have when you rent an apartment or a house.
Check the lease for any hidden fees. If you have to break your lease early, or if you pay your rent late, are there any penalties? If you are unsure about some things, you can always seek out legal advice in the state you reside in to make sure that you understand exactly what you are getting yourself involved with.
Above all else, it is important to familiarize your rights as a tenant and know what you are committing to.
Be Considerate
If you live near or with other people, they can make a difference in making your house feel like a home. Avoid being loud, and don’t assume common spaces belong to only you. It may also be wise to introduce yourself to your neighbors and maybe take them over to your new place once you are settled.
