Apartment Hunting 101:

First things first, you must KNOW and STICK TO YOUR BUDGET.

Make sure you've seen other apartments in the same price range. If it's the first apartment you've seen and you are thinking about ending your search just stop and tell yourself that I have to at least look at three communities before committing to this one.

 Is the apartment clean and freshly painted? If the landlord/property manager is promising to renovate before you move in, ask what will be done. How long will it take (If you want to move in ASAP)?  Get it in writing… Get it in writing… Get it in Writing.

Is there enough space to work in the kitchen (Very nice thing to have if you are doing a lot of cooking)? Is there enough cupboard space to store your kitchen essentials?

Are the kitchen appliances clean and do they work well? Test all appliances including the oven, stove, refrigerator and any other appliances that are there to make sure everything’s in working order.

Is there a washer/dryer that comes with the apartment? Are there washer/dryer hookups in the apartment? If not is there a laundry mat on premises and how much does it cost per load to wash and dry?

Bugs! Are there any signs of roaches or rodents? Look under the sink and around cracks and crevices any wood that you can find to see it is sturdy and solid (give it a good knock) Look at

 Do the windows open and close properly?

Are there enough electrical outlets? Test the electrical outlets to make sure they all work.

Are there enough closets and are they large enough?

Can you live with the view and the amount of light in the apartment? It’s a great idea to check if your windows are North, East, West, or south of when the sun is rising or setting because this can affect your electrical bill. It is good to have trees that create shade from the sun (Very important in the Hot Southern states).

Do the bathroom fixtures work? Are there any leaks? Does the bathtub/shower look clean and crack free? Does the tile look well grouted and caulked?

Are there any rules against painting or making changes to the space? If you’re thinking about remodeling or redecorating, make sure there are no rules that prevent you (or your landlord may take it out of your security deposit).  On occasion the landlord can pay you to do the work or take it off your rent if you do it yourself, but Get it in writing… Get it in writing… Get it in Writing.

Is there excessive street noise or noise from nearby apartments? Are there many children?

Is the apartment cable-ready? Make sure the apartment is wired to support your cable TV or high-speed Internet habits.

Is there plenty of parking? Are the guest spots and where are they? “Remember that even if the parking looks good while you are there make sure you realize that if it is working hours many people are not home.”

Oh, and the last thing, which was the first thing is to KEEP TO YOUR BUDGET.