Searching for an apartment is one of the most stressful things ever. Figuring out what you can and cannot afford, trying to find non-psycho roommates and trying your hardest to find a building in your budget that has quiet neighbors, no mold, updated appliances and a good landlord. But the hunt never fails to seem to have a few issues along the way...
THE COST
College is expensive, and living off campus is definitely the way to go to avoid even more costs. The only issue with this is all of the extra "costs" (roommates, jobs, bills, rent....upstairs neighbors having extremely loud parties and obnoxious sex.....). You also have to find out what's being included in the rent and what utilities you will have to pay out of pocket.
Finding a Roommate
Unless you're some lucky little ducky, or very good with finances, there's a slight chance many can live by themselves...it's also pretty lonely not having someone there to keep you company (and your sanity).
Availability
As luck would have it, when you find an apartment you really want and when you need it, it either gets snatched up from under you so fast you can't even blink, or you just can't afford it at the time. It's pretty much one of the worst nightmares one could have when looking for an apartment.
The Size
Size is kind of important so you at least have some room to breathe, but most places are going to give you a run for your money if you want anything bigger than 500 square feet- the more space you want, the more "through-the-roof" payment you're going to have to pay. Better get cozy now!
Neighbors
Get to know the neighbors around the buildings and find out what they are like. You can also see about staying over a night in the building you're interested in, in order to get a feel for how loud or quiet it is and if you have a mouse or a herd of rhinos living next to or above you.
Cleanliness
This is super important as well because you don't want little, um... "friends"... joining you for dinner or having surprise slumber parties with you at night. You also don't want to live in something that stinks or isn't presentable or safe for your health. Be sure to inspect carefully and closely!
Updated?
Well, preferably, but...
Security
This is probably the most important thing to consider and usually have when looking at an apartment. You don't want to be calling the cops all the time and you definitely don't want random people walking into your building, nonetheless your unit.
Management
It's a MUST to make sure you have a landlord or landlords who is/are willing to listen to any problems you have and will actually do something to try and fix it. Regardless, they're still the money-sucking monsters you thought they always were.
But when you do finally find a suitable apartment, celebrate that monumental milestone. HARD.
