Your personal and professional networks can help you find an apartment. They may know of a unit that isn’t listed or be able to tell you about other properties coming up for rent.
When looking at apartments, be realistic about what you can afford. Plan your budget and include the costs of utilities, groceries, and other expenses.
Know Your Budget
Knowing how much you can comfortably afford will make the whole process easier, whether buying or renting. It’s essential to consider your current debt load, children or pets, other living expenses, and the monthly fees associated with an apartment, like utilities, pet rent, and rental insurance. Your rent should be 30% of your monthly income or less.
When choosing apartments for rent in Saratoga Springs, NY, it would help to familiarize yourself with renting fees, such as the first month’s rent, security deposit, and broker’s fee. You’ll want enough cash for these upfront costs and moving expenses.
Let your personal and professional networks know what you’re looking for; they may have insider knowledge about units in their buildings or know someone who’s moving out. This can give you a leg up in the competition over a new apartment.
Know Your Needs
If you know what you need, it’ll be easier to weed out apartments that don’t meet your criteria. Sit down and make a list of what’s most important to you.
For example, prioritize proximity to work or public transportation to save on gas, car maintenance, and insurance costs. Or maybe you want a rooftop or in-building gym.
You should also know that apartment rental scams are out there, so be careful when contacting landlords, and only send money, wire money, or make payments after seeing the property first.
Be sure to tell everyone you know you’re looking for an apartment. This way, they can let you know if a new vacancy pops up or someone they know is moving out.
Look at the Amenities
When searching for apartments to rent in New York, many people have a list of things they want. They may look for the bare necessities, like a dishwasher and an in-unit washer/dryer, or they might wish for amenities like a resort-style pool.
Apartment amenities are unique, nonessential features that can help to make a property more attractive to prospective tenants. They can be included in the rent price or charged a separate fee. They often include gyms and pools but can also include laundry facilities and wifi connectivity.
Today’s renters, from large families to Gen Z singles, seek a home that reflects their lifestyle and values. This is why landlords use amenities to attract and retain residents. They can also serve to differentiate a building from competitors.
Look at the Location
Once a renter has narrowed down the amenities she wants and can afford, it is time to look at the location. This may help her decide if she needs to compromise certain features or is willing to allot additional funds towards the apartment.
For instance, a renter may realize she is okay with not having an onsite pool or sauna but would prefer to live close to family, work, or leisure activities. She may also be willing to pay a slightly higher rental rate for the convenience of living in an area within her desired location.
A renter should also consider whether she prefers an apartment complex or a single-family home. She should also decide if she prefers an in-unit washer and dryer or hookups for laundry facilities.
Ask Questions
Taking the time to ask questions during your apartment tour can help ensure you find an apartment that fits your budget and needs. Whether you’re asking about parking policies or how long you can stay, there are various important things to consider.
You may also want to ask about the possibility of subletting or if pets are allowed. These can be important factors if you plan on living with roommates or need a pet-friendly apartment.
Finally, let your friends, coworkers, and neighbors know you’re looking for an apartment. You never know who might have an insider tip or be able to give you a heads-up on an apartment that’s becoming available. This could save you a lot of time in the apartment search process!