With everything you need to consider before renting an apartment, it can seem a bit overwhelming. Where are the best locations? What is a rental agreement? Does the apartment have amenities? What expenses should you include in your budget? Before you sign a lease on that apartment you’ve been eyeing, make sure you read about the most important things to know before renting.
1. Location Matters
Deciding on the right location is one of the most important things you can do before renting an apartment. You should also ask yourself which features are essential with the location you choose. For example, if you are looking for an apartment in Bryn Mawr, you might consider something within walking distance of the downtown area. You should also factor in whether the apartment is close to your favorite shops, restaurants, and where you work.
2. Does the Apartment Have Essential Amenities?
If you made a list of amenities you couldn’t live without, what would be on it? Do you need in-unit laundry or an on-site workout room? Do you require an elevator instead of stairs or prefer a pool for hot summer days?
3. Upfront Costs
When it comes to moving into a new apartment, rent is not your only financial concern. Even before regular monthly expenses, you’ll also need to save for upfront costs. This can include items such as application fees, a security deposit, a pet deposit if applicable, and first and last month’s rent.
4. Long-Term Costs
Before moving in, you should also budget for long-term costs. These can range from monthly utilities, internet, cable, cell phone service, groceries, gas, clothing, and more.
5. Does Your Landlord Require Renter’s Insurance?
Before moving into an apartment, ask if renter’s insurance is required and how much it will cost. In any case, renter’s insurance is very useful and covers personal belongings if there is a fire, natural disaster, or if your apartment is burglarized.
6. Know the Community Rules
Some apartments have policies regarding quiet hours, visitors, pet restrictions, and other community rules. Renters may be fined if they don’t follow these so it is important to ask about them ahead of time.
7. Know the Possibility of Renewal
It is important to note that some leases automatically renew, while others require residents to inform the landlord about renewing or ending the lease. Failure to do so can often leave renters with a hefty fine.
8. Thoroughly Read the Contract and Lease Terms
It’s important to read through your lease carefully before you sign it. If you are unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask about it before you sign the document. Know that it’s also okay to speak with your property manager about any disagreements in the lease.
Finding an apartment can be stressful, especially if you’re moving to a new city for the first time. To begin your search, we hope the list above can provide useful information before finding that perfect place. If you are looking for a place in the suburbs of Philadelphia, consider the many apartments for rent in Bryn Mawr, including Radcliff House and our other affiliated communities.
