Moving can be a stressful experience for even the most organized of renters. Money may be limited and you may be apprehensive about finding the perfect apartment. Your search for the ultimate home can be made easier by following a few simple guidelines associated with your safety, neighborhood and landlord. Consider these tips before you leave to go apartment hunting.
Noise
Get a heads up about the current noise level at the apartment in which you are interested. While there may be a gem of an apartment in Ames, there are sure to be a few bad apples in the mix as well. Consider more than just general tenant noise, but also local businesses and nearby construction. Also avoid apartments next to bars and those that appeal to heavy foot traffic.
Sanitation
Be sure to ask the landlord about the current sanitation situation at this particular apartment in Ames. Most apartment complexes offer trash pickup on the street or at an area where trash is collected by tenants. This area should be away from your residence to avoid bad smells from lingering in and around your apartment. Your landlord should be concerned about the sanitation of the building, as well as the happiness of its tenants.
Equipment
Many apartments come fully equipped with large appliances and equipment. This may include a refrigerator, washer, dryer and stove. You’ll also want to ensure that all windows, doors, locks, faucets and electrical outlets are in good working condition before moving in. Contact management about any broken or hazardous areas in the apartment so that maintenance can get them fixed prior to you moving in.
Closets
Apartments tend to be smaller than your average family house. Therefore, closet space can go a long way to keeping your belongings organized. Find an apartment that has its own dedicated area for storing your clothes, shoes and other personal items. If the apartment in which you are interested is free of closets, look for other sources of organization. This could include drawers built into the walls or plenty of kitchen shelving.
Residents
Get a good idea of whom you may be living next door to before signing the lease. Your neighbors are an important aspect of your daily life, and therefore should be friendly towards you. Don’t hesitate to stop them briefly in the hallway and take a moment to get to know them better. They may also be able to provide you with more information on the apartment building, the landlord, and other tenants.
Furman Realty is a full-service real estate agency where customers can find apartments to rent or homes to buy. Find out more by visiting furmanrealty.com.
