With school bring just over a month and a half away, if you are like me you have started looking for apartments to move into. Here are some tips, tricks, or helpful ideas that might lead you to the right spot.

1. Pick a location.

I would choose a location that is like 20 minutes or less from campus because I have made hour commutes before and that is not a fun route.

2. Use a search tool OTHER than Google.

I have used Apartment List which is an app on my phone. It is like a “hot or not” app for apartments. You put in what you like, do not like, or amenities that you want it to have. It pulls up a list then for you to choose from. Google just pulls up ads and stuff that is not relevant to apartment hunting in my experience.

3. Make a list.

This is the most important part. Make a list, stick to the list, and add on if need be.

4. Visit the locations.

Take a day and go visit these possible contenders for your rent money. While visiting some of these apartments, there were some that I drove away from without ever touring or anything. Get a look at the grounds and the people that live there. If you feel comfortable then, continue on with the search. Well and if you don’t, skip that complex and move on with your list.

5. Pro/con List as you are touring the grounds.

I get it. I make a lot of lists, BUT most places will give you a floor plan and pen. Use it ad write good and bad things.

6. As you tour throughout the day, put the floor plans and cards in the order you like the most.

It is so much easier when you get home if you order them in the ones you like most. That way you know which one you liked best and how to rank them from there.

7. Look at online reviews, news stories, and ask around about the area.

I promise this will make a huge difference. You can learn about bug issues, maintenance staff, and possible news stories such as fires, sex offenders, and other MAJOR things just by doing a google search. I stalk apartment complexes deeper than I do any unknown friend request on Facebook.

8. Re-do that list on your favorite after you see the reviews.

Reviews will seriously change my mind. The people that take you on tours just want your money so any lie they have to tell you they will.

9. Pick your new home.

More than likely you will now sign a year lease for a place you will call home (at least for the next year). So enjoy, you have worked hard, now it is time to enjoy the new space.