4. START SHOPPING AROUND
After you've determined the place you want to move, what specifically you are looking for in an apartment and your budget, it's time to start looking. Some apartment complexes hold open houses, while others require appointments. Be sure that you are not inconveniencing the landlord when seeking out a potential apartment to rent. When speaking with the landlord of any apartment you're interested in, you may want to ask the following questions:
When searching for an apartment, the neighborhood the apartment complex is located in should be considered for reasons of safety. Be blunt and ask if the area is safe. You may want to double check, as some landlords will lie to get someone into an apartment.
Are there pets allowed? If you have pets, be sure to inquire as to whether or not you are allowed to have pets, and if so, which kind of pets you can have. Some apartment complexes only allow animals under a certain weight, so be specific.
Are there any storage units available? You may need storage for any boxes you don't plan to unpack immediately. Some apartment complexes have storage units readily available for tenant's usage.
Are there any safety precautions that need to be taken? This might include installing new locks on the doors or other precautions to keep others from getting in. (Generally you can tell whether this question needs to be asked according to the neighborhood you live in, but you still might want to be sure either way.)
Is any insurance offered or available? You might want to know if there is insurance on the chance that you're robbed or if there is a fire.
What are the phone numbers if something happens? You'll want to make sure there are phone numbers for maintenance staff, for general questions, noise complaints and anything else that might come up.
