METCALF MOVING BLOG
7 Steps to Take Before You Rent Your First Apartment
It can be thrilling to move into your first apartment as a renter. You can do many things to prepare to rent your first apartment, from deciding whether to live with roommates to getting a cosigner, if needed. Before signing your first apartment lease and relocating, here are seven things to consider.
1. Decide: Roommates or No Roommates?
A roommate can help alleviate the financial burden of renting your apartment and even provide a little company. If you need to find a roommate, many websites can help with this.
Knowing what’s important to you (including your budget, where you want to live, and what you’re looking for most in a roommate) can help you find success when you start the search. First, you must decide whether a roommate is suitable for you. Consider the pros and cons, and research where you want to live to determine if you can afford to live without a roommate. Once you’ve done this assessment, you may know better whether you need a roommate and which steps to take next.
2. Get A Cosigner If You Need One
You may need a cosigner for your lease if you have a short work or credit history. The cosigner has good credit and can personally attest that they will pay the lease if you can’t pay it yourself. Often, people turn to their parents to cosign, although friends and other family members can also step up for this.
3. Gather a List of References
You’ll need a list of references for apartment applications. It’s best to turn in your application quickly after identifying the apartment you like, so have your list of references prepared in advance. If you give out their numbers, ensure your references are prepared to receive phone calls.
4. Have Money to Put Down
Many landlords require a security deposit, first month’s rent, last month’s rent, or any combination of these three things. Know what’s typical where you’d like to rent and have an amount saved in advance.
5. Know Your Budget
Prepare a budget in advance of looking for apartments. Knowing how much you can afford to spend will give you a starting point. Once you know how much you can afford, you’ll know which apartments would be a waste of time to consider.
6. Look at Apartments Online and In Person
Get an idea of what’s typical for apartments in the area by looking at apartments in online listings. It’s also a good idea to look at apartments in person to see how big they are and how nice they are for the price you would pay.
7. Check Your Credit
Potential landlords will check your credit when you apply for an apartment. Knowing what the landlords will see when they check your credit can help you avoid problems before they begin.
Contact Movers
Make life easier by hiring movers to help you move into your apartment. Hire a company with a reputation you can trust. Contact us today for a free quote and to schedule your relocation.
