subject: 4 Steps to Renting the Perfect Apartment and other Real Estate by:Larry Beller [print this page] When people are looking to buy real estate the old adage is "Location, location, location." When you are looking to rent an apartment or other types of real estate that is also a major criteria. In addition to location there are other things to consider when you plan on renting an apartment. The list is in no particular order of importance, or rather the order of importance is your personal choice.
LOCATION
Since renting an apartment is where you will be residing, location is the first criteria when you are in the market. Location of the apartment has a different meaning than when you are buying real estate. Location in the rental market is usually shorter-term than a possible long-term real estate investment.
The ease of commuting to your job is obviously an important factor in an apartment rental. You will have to decide on whether you plan on using mass transit to work or you will drive and then the highways and parkways are the important factor. The neighborhood and the apartment complex are also an important factor that comes into play so you will feel comfortable in your surroundings.
PRICE
The cost of the rental apartment is usually the biggest deciding factor. Unlike a real estate investment, when you are renting an apartment you are thinking about how well it will suit you in the short term. Another factor in price is the security deposit.
AMENITIES
An often overlooked item when you are looking at apartments to rent are the amenities. These include washer and dryers, dishwashers and other useful things in a rental home. Some apartment complexes have gyms, pools and playgrounds on-site. These extra amenities are an important thing to consider when you look at the overall price of the rental unit. If you have a gym membership, for example, you can deduct that cost from your rent as a way of making the apartment more affordable.
MANAGEMENT
You want your apartment rental to be your home and part of that package is the management. Often, on-site managers are easier to work with since they are, well, on site. Maintenance issues should be fixed in a timely manner and the management of the apartment complex should be pleasant. Speak with other apartment renters of that building to see how the management rates.
CONCLUSION
This article is a broad overview on what you should be looking for when you are looking to rent an apartment home, or other piece of real estate. When you focus on these important characteristics: Location, Price, Amenities and Management, you will make a good choice in finding the perfect rental apartment, or other real estate.
