Tired of low-end apartment rentals that aren’t what they seem like on paper? Apartment renting can be difficult if you don’t know what to look for. Our team of experienced apartment leasing professionals has compiled a list of apartment renting tips to help you find the best space!
In this article, we’ll go over our 6 apartment renting tips:
- Determine Your Apartment Rent Budget
- Apartment and Community Amenities to Look out for
- Research Your Landlord
- Choose the Right Floor Plan
- Schedule a Tour
- Check for Mold
Need immediate assistance with apartment renting? Contact our leasing office!
Determine Your Apartment Rent Budget
Most renters follow the 3x rent rule, meaning you should not spend more than a third of your monthly gross income on tax. While there are some exceptions, the bottom line is creating smart budgeting habits can help alleviate stress around rent costs.
When building a budget, figure out what your monthly needs are. Consider categorizing your spend as:
- Debt (e.g., student loans, credit card payments)
- Monthly payments (e.g., car payments)
- Insurance expenses
- Living expenses (e.g., groceries, rent, commuting expenses)
- Savings
From there, determine what are “wants” vs “needs” and adjust accordingly. Using an app that can automatically track and categorize your spending is a great way to see your budget breakdown. This allows you to work backward to see how your rent fits into your overall budget.
If you need guidance on how to budget for your first or next apartment, check out our tips!
Apartment and Community Amenities to Look out for
Apartment renting can be a wonderful experience if you take advantage of your apartment and community amenities. When browsing apartments, think about how the property’s features could enhance your life.
For example, if you often work from home, you might prioritize large windows and an easy-to-clean space to stay focused. Home cooks might value high-end kitchen appliances and sleek quartz countertops. If you entertain a lot, access to a pool or clubhouse could sway your decision.
Doud Apartment offers a wealth of modern amenities that make apartment renting convenient, easy, and fun! Explore our features and see why people love our apartment rentals!
Research Your Landlord
Once you’ve found a property you’re interested in, you should research the property management group for any red flags.
- Read recent user reviews for insights from current renters
- Look on community forums like Next Door to hear what’s down the grapevine
- Pay attention to how the property responds to constructive feedback
- Check if the property has ever had any building complaints or violations
In general, the higher-end the apartment renting company, the better the experience and maintenance. Focus on getting the best quality to maximize your apartment living.
Choose the Right Floor Plan
The ideal apartment renting floor plan depends on several factors—the top two being your budget and your lifestyle. But you should also consider how you move through your space.
For example, if you live with a roommate, having a floor plan that separates your bedrooms with a living room can be useful in clearly defining communal vs personal space. This separation can also give more privacy to each renter by further limiting noise. For a family with children in a three-bedroom apartment, having adjacent bedrooms can give peace of mind to parents and children alike.
Window direction can also be a factor depending on your sleep schedule or lighting needs. Southern windows tend to get the most light throughout the day, which is ideal for plant lovers or those working from home.
Check for Mold
Inspecting for mold is part of the apartment tour, but it deserves its own spot on our list. Mold is a health hazard and can indicate larger issues with the property.
- Examine under and around sinks, tubs, and toilets for signs of water damage
- Look under and around the washer and dryer to check for mildew
- If your apartment has separate laundry facilities, check the room for water damage
- Flush the toilet and check for leaks or off odors
A well-managed luxury apartment should pass all tour tests with flying colors. You don’t want to waste your time with low-rent apartment rentals that cut corners around property management and safety.
Fill out an Online Application
After researching and inspecting potential apartments, you’re now ready to apply! Many properties have eligibility requirements as part of their application process, so be prepared with the relevant information. When in doubt, check with the leasing office to see if you’re eligible.
You’ll typically need:
- Proof of rental history (about 3 years)
- Contact information for rental references
- Proof of monthly income
Apartment renting doesn’t have to be a difficult process when you follow our tips! Doud Apartments makes your choice easier by offering luxury apartment rentals with in-demand amenities and exceptional property management.
Embark on an exciting new chapter in your life! Fill out an application online with Doud Apartment Homes.
