It’s time for you to leave the nest and rent your first apartment. Being out on your own is something that you’ve dreamed of for a while now but after looking around at apartments, you realize that you might not be able to do it alone.
Apartments are a little expensive. You may have to start looking around for a roommate. This is only one of the things to consider when renting an apartment.
There are many other things that you’ll need to look for, however. Let us be your home buying guide. Keep reading to find out more about getting an apartment.
Upfront Cost
You're looking at an apartment where the base rent is $650 before additional water and pet fees. It feels like a dream come true until you realize how much the pet and security deposits are. It's going to cost you over eight hundred dollars just to move into the place putting it way over your budget.
That's why it's important that you start saving months before you put in your application to the apartment. It's better to start planning early then it is to miss out on your dream 2 bedroom apartment at a frugal cost.
You Might Need a Co-Signer
When renting an apartment for the first time, you may have to get someone to co-sign the application for you. This is a person who will agree to pay for the apartment in the event that you can't or refuse to make payments.
Even if you don't need a co-signer, it may be a good idea to get a few letters of recommendation to turn in with the application. This way the landlord will sort of get a feel for what you'll be like as a renter.
The Location
Just like any other real estate, it's all about location, location, location! You don't want to have to go all over town to get groceries and run your other errands. Look for an apartment in San Francisco that's sort of close to everything. It also might be a good idea to get a place that's only a short distance away from work.
This way if your car breaks down you can walk and you're not spending too much money on gas each month because you only live 5 minutes away from your job.
Do You Want a Roommate
If this is your first time renting an apartment don't be surprised if you can't afford it without having a roommate. This happens to many people. It's hard to pay for rent and other expenses without having another person living with you.
Make sure it's somebody you know and can trust to pay their part of the bills on time. The last thing you want is to pay a late fee because of a slacking roomie.
Things to Consider When Renting an Apartment that Not Everyone Thinks About
There are many things to consider when renting an apartment. You don't just put in your application and get your set of keys. We hope you're able to use this guide to make getting your first apartment easy and stress-free.
Did reading this article help you with moving into your first apartment? Check out our blog daily for even more advice like what you've read here. Visit the Real Estate section for more things to consider when renting an apartment, buying a home, becoming a landlord, or investing in real estate properties.