Checklist for apartment renting

Many cities have friendly neighborhoods with great properties, but it can be hard to find the right apartment for you. It's important to know what properties are in your budget, what you want out of a rented space and what questions to ask a potential landlord. Before signing your next lease, here are things to consider when renting an apartment.

Preparing your finances and budget

As you are preparing to move, consider your current personal finances. Think about how much you are willing to pay for rent and utilities each month and check to make sure that price within your budget.

Be realistic about your expenses. No matter what kind of apartment you choose, it’s important that the property fits your budget so you are able to pay bills on time, help build savings and potentially still have money for travel, entertainment, holidays and social activities.

Also, it’s helpful to think about your future plans. If you are saving for your first home, consider a lower rent payment to help set yourself up for future financial success.

Defining your apartment wish list

Before you start searching, think about what to look for when renting an apartment and what’s most important to you. Create a rental property inspection checklist that includes both your needs and wants. Start with these questions:

• What type of property do I prefer: an apartment, condo, duplex or townhome?
• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do I need? Am I comfortable with a studio, or do I need space for roommates, guests or a home office?
• How much rent am I willing to pay?
• Is being on the first floor important for easy access, or do I feel safer on a higher floor?
• Do I need outdoor space like a backyard, balcony or patio?
• Am I bringing any pets?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you create your personal rental checklist, making it easier to stay focused as you start your search.

Researching locations and neighborhoods

As you think about how to find an apartment, location is one of the biggest things to consider. Knowing the pros and cons of a location helps you decide if you’ll feel comfortable and happy in your new home. Consider:

• Proximity to work, school or family
• Local amenities, schools, parks and grocery stores
• Safety statistics and community feel
• Access to public transportation

It is also smart to use online crime maps or contact your local police department for current neighborhood crime statistics. If possible, talk to current residents about their experiences living in the area. Reach out on social media or find online reviews to see whether the location fits your lifestyle.

How to look for an apartment online

There are many websites to help you look for apartments online. You can usually filter your search by location, number of rooms, price range and amenities.

Often, you can also find square footage, utility information and pictures of both the inside and outside of the property. By filtering your search, you’ll save time and money by looking only at available listings that include your preferences.

Here are some apartment search sites to help you find your dream space:

• Apartment List
• Apartments.com
• Hotpads
• PadMapper
• Trulia
• Walk Score
• Zillow

While searching, it is often helpful to use multiple sites to compare listings, increase your options and spot the best deals.

Creating a rental checklist

When searching for and touring apartments, it’s important to learn as much as you can about the property and have your own rental inspection checklist. Here are some questions to consider when looking at potential apartments:

What is the application process and screening criteria?

Ask the landlord to explain the application, screening processes and application fees. A thorough screening process shows the landlord is careful about finding good renters. If a credit check is needed, make sure to check your credit score and prepare.

How much is the rent?

Ask about the rent price to help guarantee you don't overpay on rent. To make sure you get a fair price, check the rent of similar properties in the vicinity so you don't pay too much.

Additionally, ask how the landlord accepts rent payment. Landlords often choose which forms of payment they will accept for rent and some allow tenants to pay rent online or through direct deposit.

Finally, ask about potential additional fees. Are the utilities included, or do you have to pay for them out-of-pocket? Are there amenities (such as a pool or gym) included in your rent payment?

Does it have furnishing, appliances, and parking?

While it’s common for renters to bring their own furniture and appliances, some apartments provide it. If furnishings or appliances are included, find out what condition they are in. If the unit is furnished, be sure to ask exactly what is included in the contract so there are no surprises when you move in.

Additionally, some apartments have dedicated parking lots or garages for your car, while others rely on side-street parking. Leave your tour knowing if parking is covered, how many cars you can have and if there is a guest policy.

Are there any maintenance issues to address?

You should check the faucets, toilets and windows for potential water leaks, look inside cabinets and closets, be on the lookout for bugs and look for holes in the wall. Once you take possession, you might be responsible for any issues.

Furthermore, don’t be afraid to ask about your potential landlord's maintenance responsibilities. You want to be sure the landlord appropriately manages the property and responds quickly to repair requests. When viewing a property, the current condition of the apartment will offer clues to the upkeep routines of the landlord.

Watch for apartment scams

While you’re reviewing rental listings and viewing properties, be aware of potential rental scams as you begin your search. If the rental listing seems too good to be true, it just might be a scam. Some red flags to look for include:

• Trying to get payment before even meeting or showing you the property
• Wanting money to hold the property because the landlord is not available
• Fake listings

If you become the victim of a scam, call the police immediately. And above all else, be safe when looking for potential apartments.

Moving can be an exciting time in your life, but it can be hard to know how to find apartments for rent. You can help make it as stress-free as possible by asking the right questions of your potential landlord, understanding renting tips and foreseeing potential issues with a rental property checklist.

Once you've decided on the perfect place, be sure you are protected against the unexpected with renters insurance. You can get a renters insurance quote now, or give us a few details and a State Farm® agent will reach out to you.