Moving On: The Apartment Hunt

Looking for that first apartment after college graduation is a big moment. There are so many exciting possibilities and even more hindrances. Not knowing what you’re looking for can make the process exhausting and seem pointless. But, with the right research and proper understanding of what to look for, anyone can find an apartment with confidence.

Before You Go:

Contrary to popular belief, the quest for the perfect living space starts long before you hit the streets with an over-charging leasing agent. The first thing to consider when looking for an apartment is how long you are going to live in this space. This question will determine what kind of lease you need: Most leases entail at least a one-year commitment. So if this is too long for you, consider a sublet or a month-to-month lease. Next, avoid renter’s remorse by realistically thinking about how much space you need. Note: There is a large difference between need and want. You may want an apartment with a living room large enough for a beer pong tourney, but do you need it? This also goes for amenities. Can you really afford (or need) a private roof-top terrace on that executive assistant salary?
The next thing to consider is roommates. Do you want em? Do you need em? Living with a roommate is much cheaper than living alone. Not only can you get a bigger space for your money, but you can share expenses like cable and furniture. Ask friends if they know of anyone who is looking for a roommate or apartment. If they don’t know anyone, check out websites like roommates.com or craigslist.com. These are great sites to find someone to find an apartment with, or someone with an apartment looking to fill a room. Just be careful: make sure you meet these people before making any promises. We all know there are a lot of weirdo&#39s out there!

Once you&#39re done researching roommates, research and explore different neighborhoods. What kind of environment you want to live in? A neighborhood with many young families? Or hot young professionals? You can ask around, but when making a big decision like where to live, it is best to really feel an area out yourself. Also be sure to investigate the rents in that area, which will obviously be a deciding factor in whether you can live there.

On the Road:

Now you (and possibly your awesome new craigslist.com roommate) are ready to begin viewing apartments. Make appointments with brokers and check out listings online (local newspaper or the amazing craigslist.com) in order to find out what is available, then get ready to run. When preparing to go and see apartments, pack a bag: bring your checkbook, two recent bank statements, last year’s tax return (first page and the signature page) two recent pay stubs, letter of employment, letter of reference from a previous landlord or their contact information, tape measurer, camera and notebook. Seem excessive? It&#39s not. In some cities, apartment units can be snatched up in one day, even one hour. You have to be ready to sign a lease on the spot, so the more prepared you are, the better your chances.

When viewing a model apartment, keep a look out for any imperfections. Not inspecting an apartment before moving in can result in serious safety hazards. There are various things to keep in mind before signing that lease:
&#39 Always insist on seeing the actual apartment, occupied or not.
&#39 When taking the walk-through of the apartment, check for new paint, clean-looking and -smelling rugs and wall holes.
&#39 Appliances should be working and clean.
&#39 Electrical outlets outlets and fans should be running and not loose. (Loose electrical outlets are fire hazards.)
&#39 Inspect all water outlets for leaks. Make sure the water temperature isn&#39t too hot or too cold, the pressure is good, the drains do not stop up and toilets flush properly.
If you find any problems with the apartment, make sure to report them to the leasing/management office as soon as possible.

Security is the most important thing when apartment-hunting. You can&#39t make an apartment a home if you don&#39t feel safe. Verify that the apartment&#39s security is approved to meet local standards to deter forced entry. Each window should have at least two types of locks, and main doors should have deadbolts and peep holes. Regarding outdoor security, corridors and walkways should be adequately lit. Check to see that fire extinguishers are charged and accessible and that fire alarms are installed and tested. Once you&#39re done asking about the apartment&#39s security, check crime reports from police for the apartment&#39s area. (Note: If you are in a city like New York where you have to decide on the spot, you may not be able to go to such lengths. But, if you check out the neighborhood in advance, you will have a good idea of how safe it is.)

Take It!

Once you find the apartment you love, you must sign the lease. Do some online research into tenants’ rights, what should be included in a lease, and anything else you may need to know (these are different in every state). Make sure to read the whole thing and even pass it along to your parents to give it a once-over; you don&#39t want any surprises down the road. Dot your &#39I&#39s&#39 and cross your &#39T&#39s&#39 and then head out to the bar for a celebratory cocktail!