4 Important Tips For First-Time Renters

Posted on: 29 April 2022

When it comes to renting your first place, there is a lot you need to know to get things right. There are numerous things you need to consider when looking at one- or two-bedroom apartments

Figure Out All Your Expenses

When it comes to renting your first apartment, you need to figure out all your expenses. You need to figure out not just what your rent payment will be but what your other bills will be. Other bills you may have to pay include the following: 

  • Water
  • Electricity
  • Garbage
  • Gas
  • Internet
  • Cell phone
  • Transportation costs

Additionally, keep in mind that you will need to purchase basic supplies for your apartments, such as dish soap, toilet paper, and other day-to-day supplies. You also need to budget for food and personal toiletries. When you live on your own for the first time, you need to account for all of your expenses. 

Visit the Apartment More Than Once

If you are considering renting an apartment for multiple months, you will want to visit the apartment complex more than once. You will want to see what it is like to drive to the apartment complex in rush hour in the morning and evening and see the traffic and environment around the apartment complex. You don't have to visit the exact apartment but visit the area more than once to get a feel for what the area is like.

Talk to the Neighbors

You are going to want to talk to the neighbors as well. You will want to find out what it is like actually to live in the apartment complex. You want to find out if the landlord or property management company does a good job taking care of the property. The neighbors can also let you know if the walls are thin and what the apartment community is like. 

Don't just talk to the neighbors. You can also search public records to find out if the property has any housing violations. Avoid apartments with excessive housing violations. 

Find Out What is Included

Don't assume that everything is included in the rent. You will want to find out what is included in the rent. Does the property come with the appliances? Does it come with a parking space? Does it include window coverings? Make sure that what you want to be included is completely spelled out in the contract. 

When it comes to renting your first apartment, think carefully about everything you will have to pay for as you live on your own. Visit the apartment complex more than once, and be sure that you like the apartment complex as well. 

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