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Determine your budget -

According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, no more than 30% of your gross income should be spent on renting an apartment. While this can be harder to achieve in big cities like New York or Boston, do your best to abide by it.

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Choose your neighborhood -

When choosing a neighborhood to rent in, be sure to consider all of the following: How close to work are you? Do you prefer driving, walking, or taking public transportation? Do you need quiet, or do you prefer to be at the center of everything?

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Decide if you need a roommate -

If you find that rent prices are too expensive, then you might consider getting a roommate. Before you do, though, think about who would be a compatible roommate, what characteristics your roommate should have, and how many do you need or want.

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Consider the parking situation -

In big cities, it can be much more challenging to find a place to park. Be sure to keep this in mind when thinking about where to live and rent. Also, ensure the area your car might be parked in is safe at night.

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Think about the amenities -

In some condo buildings, there are amenities such as pools, gyms, and more. These are great perks to consider when deciding where to rent.

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Consider which floor you want to live on -

There isn't a right or wrong answer to this, just a personal preference. Think about if there are stairs or an elevator if you want to live higher up.

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Know the best time to look for an apartment -

Depending on your flexibility and when you need to move, rental prices can vary a lot. In general, the winter months often offer the best deals.

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Give yourself time to search -

Starting your search early is never a bad idea, as sometimes things will take longer than anticipated. When searching for an apartment, certain things can make finding one a bit trickier.

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Research the landlord or property management -

Before you move in, research the landlord or property management company. Just like they are evaluating you, you should evaluate them. Make sure they're responsive and kind, or there might be problems later.

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Ask questions during your tours -

When touring your starter (or any) apartment, be sure to ask questions to the person showing the property. Questions like who is responsible for utilities, how is parking handled, and how much is rent are all worth asking.

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Know how to spot rental scams -

Unfortunately, there are numerous types of rental scams out there. One of the most common is known as the bait-and-switch, where one property is advertised while another is actually available. The scammer will try to get you to pay a deposit or sign a lease without first seeing the place.

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Be open with your roommate or significant other -

Moving in with a roommate or significant other can be a very exciting time in life. However, don't let the thrill of the moment keep you from having open, honest, and important discussions with one another.

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Budget for all upfront costs -

There are many upfront costs associated with moving. It's important to know that most rental properties will require a deposit (usually in the amount of the first and last month's rent), the first month's rent, plus the cost of moving, buying new furniture, pet rent if applicable, and so on.

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Remember future expenses -

While upfront expenses are crucial to bear in mind, future expenses should be calculated, too. These can include utilities such as gas, electricity, water, internet, and more.

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Gather your paperwork -

Take the time before getting too far into the rental process to find and collect all the needed documentation. Often landlords will request your credit score, rental history, proof of income, and possibly even recommendations. 

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Prepare an apartment inspection checklist -

If your prospective landlord doesn't provide you with an inspection checklist, request that they give you one or ask if you can prepare your own. It's important to assess the apartment and damages before you actually move in, so that when one day you move out you aren't held liable for the damages.

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Purchase renters insurance -

An often overlooked task is to purchase renters insurance. This will cover you in the cases of pre-approved emergencies and mishaps such as fire, hail, theft, water damage, and more.

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Read and understand your lease agreement -

Many renters forget (or chose not to) dig into their lease agreement, but it can truly save you time, money, and effort by doing so. Pay special attention to the lease length, monthly rent, pet policy, noise regulations, and utility costs if not included in the rent.

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Understand the security deposit terms -

The security deposit is sometimes applied to your rental cost, other times it's kept in a special bank account and returned at the end of your lease. Ask your landlord which is the case for you and this rental.

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Familiarize yourself with local tenant laws -

It's always smart to familiarize yourself with local tenant laws just in case something were to go wrong. Check out online sources or speak to a legal professional.

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Learn about maintenance and repairs -

Talk to your landlord about what happens when maintenance and repairs need to happen. Are you responsible for taking care of them, or will they hire someone to come address the issue?

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Understand the utility setup -

Are utilities included in your rent, or will you pay for them separately? If separate, when should you set them up and how much do they run on average per month?

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Find out guest policies -

In most apartments you can have a guest or two stay for a limited number of nights. However, past this point, your landlord might want to be informed or even would want to charge them rent or a cost for staying there. Talk openly with your landlord about the guest policy so you know what to expect.

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Confirm trash and recycling details -

If you're staying in an apartment building, it's likely there will be a trash room or area for recycling and otherwise. Ask your landlord where you should dispose of waste and such items.

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Check cell service and internet options -

Some buildings, if they are older or located further outside a city, might have poor reception. Check that your cell phone and internet function properly.

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Organize your move -

Now that the lease is signed and you're ready to move, here are some tips to consider to help it go smoothly. Schedule a move-in date with your landlord, secure moving boxes, pack, and be sure to set up utilities at your new location and turn them off when applicable at the old.

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Deep clean your new apartment -

As you're moving into your new place, be sure to first give it a deep clean. Even if someone had cleaned it before you, there's nothing quite like doing it yourself and knowing for sure.

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Furnish your apartment on a budget -

New apartments can be fun to decorate, but the cost can add up quickly. Check out discount stores or cheap furniture places to make your place feel homey.

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Enjoy your new apartment! -

Finding the perfect apartment and preparing it can be stressful, certainly. But this is a huge step in your life, so be sure to take time and enjoy it!

Sources: (Apartment List) (Oasis Living)

See also: The best indoor plants for your apartment

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