The Elusive Apartment Hunt

All the research you can possibly do can’t prepare you for the stressful task of finding an apartment, but it’s not as bad as you think! Moving to a new city presents a lot of challenges and changes, and the apartment hunt can be a worrisome process. Am I going to get scammed? Is this a good neighborhood? What if I can’t afford it? All good questions that you should be writing down before you even begin looking.

Hone in on the nitty-gritty, no matter how cumbersome it is. For instance, experts say rent should only cost 25% to 30% of your annual income. Do the math! Are you cutting it very close, or is there wiggle room in the event that extra expenses pop up?

In addition to making a list of questions, make a list of “needs” and “wants.” Consider what you are willing to compromise on (lack of laundry facilities) and what you are not (long commute to work). When you’re actually looking at places, bring someone along who can offer up a different perspective and take notes as you walk around.

Do you have any tips for this kind of “hunting?” Questions you wish you would have asked before signing a lease? Or how about some “whoops!” stories? [The Hearld-Dispatch]