AVOID RENTER’S REGRET
Renting your first apartment is an exciting time in your life, but it’s not something you’ll want to jump into without some careful thought and asking a lot of questions. Renting an apartment is a big financial commitment for most people, so you’ll want to make sure that you have all of the information you need to make a well-informed decision.
The best way to get started is to jot down a list of needs and wants. Include the location you want to live in and how far you are willing to commute. Also, consider things such as available parking for your vehicle or access to public transportation if that is important to you. Taking careful inventory of what you’re looking for and what you really need in your first apartment will go a long way in helping you sign your lease with confidence when you find the right one.
Ask These Questions When Researching A New Apartment:
- What are your lease terms?
- What amenities are included?
- Which appliances and utilities are included?
- What is the pet policy?
- Is parking included? Do you have covered parking or garages?
- How much notice do I have to give before vacating?
- What is the penalty for breaking the lease?
- How much is the security deposit?
Your Budget
Lease Terms
Location
Amenities
First-Time Apartment Renter’s Guide
Step #1: Determine Your Budget
Unless you have just recently won the lottery, the most important step in any apartment search is to establish your budget. This will help to guide you during your search and ensure that you don’t sign a contract for something you can’t afford. Be prepared — you might find an apartment that you absolutely love, only to find that it seems a bit pricey. By taking some time to carefully assess your budget ahead of time, it will be easier to make a smart decision when you find a place that is out of your price range.
Choose A Location
You’ll probably already have an idea of where you want to live when you start your apartment search, but what will happen if there are none available in your desired price range? Are you willing to expand your search? What if you find “the one” and it’s an hour commute to your job? These are all things that you’ll have to consider before you start your apartment search. If you don’t establish clear guidelines on where you want to live and how far you are willing to commute, you risk making a spur-of-the-moment decision that you might regret.
Consider Needs Vs. Wants
First-time renters who have always lived at home or school might be overwhelmed by the number of options and amenities available in today’s apartment communities. You might be tempted to opt for the place with the most “bells and whistles” but does it actually meet your needs? Consider things such as location, space, and budget first before comparing apartments based on amenities. Although it would be great to live in a place with its own bowling alley and private spa, but if you have to take on three jobs just to pay for it, it’s likely that you’ll be very unhappy.
Read The Lease And Ask Questions
Renting your first apartment can be a fun and exciting experience. But don’t forget — once you sign that lease it’s a legal and binding document. That’s why you shouldn’t rush to add your signature without first reading through it thoroughly. You don’t want to sign a lease and then find out after the fact that you have to find a new home for your furbaby because they don’t accept pets. Read the entire lease, including the fine print. Bring along a friend or family member to review it with you if that will make you feel better. Just don’t sign something without reading it all first.
Looking For Apartments in Hickory, NC?
If you’re ready to find a place of your own and are looking for apartments in Hickory, NC, we invite you to take a look at The Estates at Legends. We offer spacious floorplans, modern conveniences, and plenty of included amenities — all in an idyllic location just a few minutes from downtown Hickory. All of our apartments feature an open floor plan with 9-foot tall ceilings, walk-in closets, and a sunroom or patio. Plus, our residents love all of the included extras like access to a 24-hour fitness center, movie theater room, and saltwater pool. Come see why so many people call The Estates at Legends home. For more information or to schedule a tour, give us a call today.