First, set a budget. This is probably the primary consideration for most renters. Take into consideration your monthly income, then subtract your monthly expenses. Include all of your recurring expenses and allow for some savings and an emergency fund. The remaining sum is what you have to spend on monthly rent.
Begin Researching Your Options
Now that you know your budget, begin looking at apartments within that range. You might want to consider looking at apartments slightly out of your range because some landlords will knock a little off the rent if you are willing to make a few improvements.
At this stage of your apartment hunting, you do not necessarily have to visit each and every property. You can obtain pricing information from web sites, the Internet or real estate agents who handle apartments. In some larger cities there are entire agencies that specialize in apartment finding and those working on real estate careers help you find your dream house.
View Properties and Compare
Now that you have a list of apartments in your range, begin visiting them. This will give you a feel for the neighborhood and what amenities are available, if you are looking at an apartment complex.
If you find two comparable and desirable properties, you may be able to do some negotiating on prices. Landlords are sometimes a little flexible and may bend on the rent by $25-50 per month. Be careful not to insult the landlord by demanding too much.
Contracts
When you finally settle on the right apartment read your contract carefully. Breaking a lease can affect your credit report and your future leasing prospects.
