Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the first day as a college freshman, watching your child start a new chapter in their life can be bittersweet. As many people know, the need for a parent’s wisdom doesn’t end as soon as the diploma is in hand. Transitioning to a new apartment can be an eye-opening experience, especially for young adults who haven’t left the nest. From comparing rent rates to choosing a location, there are many factors that go into apartment hunting that first-time renters may not be aware of. Here are a few tips for helping your college student or recent grad pick the perfect apartment.
Do Your Research: As with anything, learn as much as you can before putting your time, effort, and money into it. Be sure to consider important things while narrowing down your search, such as travel time and how close the apartment is to your child’s school or job. While diving into the descriptions and fine print is very important, so is reading reviews by former and current residents. Visit a few different review sites to get a well-rounded overview of a particular apartment community. Also, reach out to your son or daughter’s new school to see if they have any partnerships or specials with local apartment communities.
List Your Non-Negotiables: While there are some amenities or features that can be easily let go, stay strong when it comes to keeping the necessities. If your child plans to live alone, consider the reputation of the area, as well as local businesses and the type of clientele they attract. Also, set a reasonable range for rent and stick with it. Certain unique amenities may contribute to the higher rate but be sure to stay in a comfortable range to ensure the payments are manageable for you and your first-time renter.
Pay Attention During The Walk Through: Seeing a place in person is extremely important during the apartment hunting process. It can be easy to fall for online listings that images that seem too good to be true. Ensure that you know what you and your kid are getting into by visiting the apartment community and inspecting it with your own eyes. Updated appliances, carpeting, and plumbing can result in a smoother living environment throughout the year. It’s important for a young adult to focus on their studies or new job, not unclogging the bathtub for the third time that month.
Searching for a new apartment for yourself or someone else can be stressful at any age, so having the right resources to guide you is essential. For more tips on apartment hunting for young adults, contact us today!
