Apartment Tips: Asking the Right Questions
Whenever you’re considering a big move like getting your own apartment, you have a right and a duty to determine your needs beforehand. After all, six months or a year may not seem like that long, but it can be a lifetime when you aren’t happy. To make a decision that you can not only live with, but live with happily, you’ll have to be honest and thorough with yourself. One of the best ways to do this is to sit down with a list of questions that only you can answer. Here are some that you’ll want to consider.
Where do I want to live?
This might seem like an obvious one, but it is a question that so many people fail to really examine. Sure, finding an apartment is all about “where you want to live”, but consider it from every perspective. Particularly location. That complex across town may be beautiful and you may know a lot of people who have recommended it, but how well are you going to like your commute to work or school? A thirty minute drive can seem like an eternity when you have to do it every day. Not to mention all the money you’ll be dumping into your gas tank. It is considerations like this that far too many people fail to take into account.
What size am I looking for?
If you’re living on your own, it might be a temptation to look for a one bedroom apartment for affordability reasons. And this isn’t the worst choice. After all, your home is what you make of it. If you want to transform your living room into an office, you’re free to do so. Think about the question from all angles, though. A small space can get claustrophobic, even when you live on your own. You’ll never regret having more space, and an extra bedroom usually doesn’t cost that much more.
What can I afford?
You might have a number in mind, but what calculations did you do to arrive at that number? If you’re like most people, you’re probably saying, “Huh? Calculations?” Exactly. Moving into an apartment you can’t afford is a good way to wind up in serious financial trouble. Make sure it doesn’t happen by creating a budget. Be conservative with the budget. Overestimate all of your expenses. Only then will you know what you can afford. You may be disappointed with how your selection of choices has dwindled, but you’ll be much happier when rent comes due.
