Congratulations on your apartment search! Finding a new home is an exciting and daunting process but it can be hard to know where to start when looking for an apartment and how to find one that suits your needs. Depending on your city or town, there are lots of options and tools you can use to find an apartment. Knowing the steps involved in finding an apartment ahead of time makes this process much easier and less stressful. We’ve put together specific steps on how to go about finding an apartment so that you can quickly move into your dream home.
Step #1 – Set Your Budget
Renting an apartment is a big financial decision, and it’s important to establish what you can afford each month in rent, utilities, and insurance. A good rule of thumb is that rent shouldn’t total more than a third of your income, and it’s a good idea to also decide on what you’ll budget for other essentials like groceries, entertainment, internet, and anything else you might need.
If you find that you can’t afford to rent on your own, consider a roommate who can split the cost with you.
Step #2 – Decide Where to Live
Consider what you need and how far away you’ll be from your essentials. Is it important for you to live nearby school, work, or family and friends? How far away is the grocery store? What are the public transport options if you don’t have a reliable vehicle?
Make sure your new neighbourhood is a place where you feel secure. Check out local Facebook pages and other social media groups for information about the area if you’re moving to a neighbourhood that you can’t visit before moving in.
Step #3 – Make a List of Must-Haves
Apartments can have a wide range of amenities, from indoor pools to gyms. Decide which amenities are a must-have for you and be sure to ask the landlord about them. For example, it’s a good idea to establish if the property has onsite laundry, either in-unit or via a communal laundry room.
Step #4 – Research the Local Market
Thankfully, it’s easy to view detailed apartment listings online. Check out property owner websites (such as Summit’s) in addition to social media listings, as they often contain more information, higher quality photos, and give you a better overall sense of how the landlord manages the property.
Step #5 – Schedule Apartment Showings
You’ve found a place you love, and now it’s time for a tour! Treat it like a home inspection. Pay attention to signs of damage and ensure that everything is in good working order.
Step #6 – Review Leases and Contracts Carefully
Once you’ve found the apartment of your dreams, don’t forget to read over your lease to find out important details like what you can and can’t do with your unit. It’s better to know ahead of time so you aren’t surprised by unforeseen fees or legal consequences.
Find Your Next Home with Summit
End the stressful process of apartment hunting when you check out Summit’s residential listings! Our beautifully appointed units are located in prime locations that are close to all the amenities you need. Our residential listings feature high-quality images of our units, detailed floor plans, and information about amenities and availability. Contact us today to book a showing with one of our rental specialists!