Finding rental apartment that is comfortable and perfect for your family is a challenging and time-consuming job.
The apartment you choose is not just a roof and four walls but will be your home for the future. It will be a place where your family will live and thrive.
The entire process of choosing the perfect apartment can be overwhelming, especially when you are a first-time renter.
If you are confused about finding the perfect rental apartment here are some tips to help you find the perfect rental apartment for your family.
Where to search for rental apartments?
To avoid the last-minute rush and give yourself time to carefully analyze the listings and choose the perfect apartment, it is important to start your apartment search at the right time.
Begin apartment hunting at least a few months before your projected move-in date.
You can use a combination of the below sources to find apartments for rent.
1. Search online listings on reputed websites:
If you are moving to a new city or do not have time to visit different neighborhoods, use online websites to search for apartments in your preferred neighborhood.
However, you have to make sure that the websites are trusted and have good ratings to ensure that you get a true deal.
2. Hire rental brokers:
Another option to find apartments that meet your preferences is to hire rental brokers or apartment brokerages.
Rental brokers have good contacts and are experienced in this field.
They have information about properties that are not still listed or those that are soon to be listed. They can also help you strike a good deal with the landlord.
3. Ask for references from friends and family:
Friends and family are good sources to find about apartments for rent.
You can ask your friends, colleagues, and other people in your network for references. This will help you to save brokerage costs and find a good apartment.
Your friends can also put a good reference for you with the landlord and make sure that you pass the tenant screening and get the apartment.
4. Use social media:
Social media is another good place to search for apartments. See Facebook neighborhood groups or post on other social media for references to apartments on rent.
You can connect directly with private landlords and secure a good deal through social media.
5. Drive Through the Neighborhood:
Take time to drive around your chosen neighborhoods to find apartments for rent. This will help you to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood, gauze the vibe, and also find out apartments for rent.
Most private landlords put up “for rent” signs or put up advertisements in the neighborhood supermarkets or community centers.
How to shortlist the perfect apartment?
Once you have a list of apartments for rent, the next step is to shortlist the best ones. To shortlist apartments, you have to consider factors like
1. What is your budget?
How much rent are you willing to pay for the apartment?
It is important to note that there will be other expenses such as utility bills, maintenance expenses, insurance, etc. that will add up to the monthly rent.
Consider all the expenses, before fixing your monthly budget for rent.
2. How much space do you want?
- What is the size of your family?
- How big should your home be?
- Do you have children?
- Will your parents visit you often?
- Do you need a big apartment with individual rooms for all members or do you want the children to share a room?
- Do you want a studio apartment or an apartment with three bedrooms?
3. What amenities do you require?
The next question to ask is what amenities you require. Consider both the in-unit and the common amenities.
For example, ask questions such as –
- Do you need an apartment with a children’s park and a swimming pool?
- Do you need a fully functional kitchen, or will a kitchenette be enough?
- Do you need an apartment with a fitness center?
- Do you prefer an in-unit washer and dryer, or can you use the community washing machines?
4. What is your preferred neighborhood?
- Where do you want to live?
- Do you want to live closer to schools?
- Do you want to stay closer to your workspace?
- Do you prefer to live in a neighborhood closer to hospitals and healthcare facilities?
- Do you want to stay in the quiet suburbs or closer to the action in your city?
Finding answers to these questions will help you to know your expectations from the rental apartment and how much you are willing to spend.
You can shortlist the apartments that suit your preferences and budget.
You must also visit the apartments for a physical inspection to check the actual condition of the unit.
Notice any red flags that you notice and discuss them with the landlord. Speak to the neighbors to get a review of the actual living conditions.
How to choose the perfect apartment?
After shortlisting the apartments, the next step is to compare the apartments and choose the best one.
You can use the apartment decision matrix to compare multiple apartments and choose the best one based on the value it offers.
Once you finalize the apartment, the next step is to check your credit score and ensure it is in good shape.
Later, you will have to apply for the apartment in the manner specified by the landlord. If you are working with a rental broker, he will do the paperwork for you.
Before signing the lease, you must go through the fine print closely.
Check the details such as the safety deposit, pet policy, guest policy, renewal clause, etc.
Check whether the lease clearly defines the responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant. If any clauses are confusing, speak to the landlord and clear the confusion before you sign the lease and move into your new apartment.
Final words
Finding a rental apartment can be intimidating and tedious, particularly if you do not know how to go about the process.
Planning ahead of time and starting your search well in advance is the key to finding the perfect apartment for your family.
You can work with rental brokers or apartment brokerages if you do not have time to search various websites, social media, and listings for rental properties.
Rental brokers have years of experience helping renters find the perfect apartment and can help you strike a good deal with the landlord.
Before you finalize the apartment, you must consider factors such as your budget, preferred location, amenities, and space requirements for your family.
These factors will help you to shortlist suitable apartments from the clutter and compare them to zero in on your dream apartment.
