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WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN LOOKING FOR YOUR APARTMENT

• WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT IN YOUR NEW APARTMENT?
  
  • In most cases, your apartment include carpet, mini blinds or drapes and air conditioning.
  • The kitchen will be equipped with an electric range and refrigerator. In most cases, you'll have a dishwasher and disposal. Many newer communities include: microwave, icemaker, designer cabinetry, washer and dryer, intrusion alarms and more. Yes, of course your new home will have air conditioning.
  • Utilies will vary per market. In most cases, you will pay for your electricity, gas, water and cable tv.
• HOW ABOUT YOUR NEW APARTMENT COMMUNITY?
  
  • Many communities (depending on the city) will have a swimming pool.
  • Other amenities may include such things as: Jacuzzi, Tennis, Sand Volleyball, Racquetball, Fitness Center, Clubhouse, Game Room, Laundry Facilities, Concierge Services, Playground, Car Wash Area, Access Gates, Picnic / BBQ Area, Basketball, Garages or Carports,… the list is endless.
  • Most will have on-site professional management and maintenance. Communities are generally two or three stories, and elevators with buildings over 3 stories.
• HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?
  
  • Only you can determine your rent budget. As a guideline, the apartment communities consider your total monthly gross income in qualifying. Usually the communities will require between 3 and 4 times you rent.
  • The vast majority of the communities will require a credit check, rental history verification, employment verification, and criminal history background as a part of the application process. Expect to pay $20-$50 for the rental application fee.
• WILL THEY ACCEPT MY PET?
  
  • Many communities will accept small pets, a few will accept larger or multiple pets. Pet deposits can range from $200 to over $500 depending on the community and your pet. A portion of the deposit may not be refundable. Some communities add a monthly pet fee to the rent.
• LOOKING AT APARTMENTS:
  
  • Identification: Be sure that all people wishing to view any apartment have a valid picure identification, such as their driver's license or passport. A photo ID is required identification at most apartment communities to view any unit.
  • Viewing Apartments: Remember, empty units always look smaller than they are. Try to picture how your furniture will fit. Keep in mind any extremely large wall units, sectionals, etc. Bring measurements and a tape measure with you, if necessary. Be prepared to fill out an application and leave a deposit when you find the right place.

• SPECIALS & AVAILABILITY:
  
  • Many communities offer move-in specials, especially on twelve month leases. Keep in mind that any special can end at any moment, depending on current availability. If you want to take advantage of a special, ACT QUICKLY! Apartment availability can change quickly. A unit that is available this morning may be rented this afternoon. The best ones tend to go quickly.
  • For future occupancy, (over 30 to 60 days) many communities can put you on a priority waiting list for the first available apartment. Generally, in order to hold any apartment, the community requires your application, application fee, and at least a portion of the security deposit.
• WHEN YOU'VE MADE YOUR DECISION:
  
  • You will need to be prepared to leave a deposit along with your rental application. You should not expect communities to hold units off the market unless you are ready to lease.
• LEASE TERMS:
  
  • Generally, the minimum lease is for six months or twelve months, some communities offer month to month or 3 month leases with additional rent.
• UTILITY DEPOSITS:
  
  • The power companies can tell you what the average bill has been for any specific apartment. Most power companies will do an instant credit check to determine if you need a deposit to have your service turned on.
• SECURITY DEPOSITS:
  
  • Security Deposits for qualified applications generally range from $100 to $400. Some communities include a non-refundable fee as part of the total deposit. If you cannot qualify because you have not secured employment in the area, or have some other type of credit questions, some communities may ask for additional security or advance rent.
• NEED FURNITURE?
  
  • A few communities offer basic furnished apartments. Each of our offices can offer you assistance on furniture rental and discounts.
• WHAT ABOUT SHORT-TERM RENTALS?
  
  • There are speciality companies and apartment communities that list with our offices. Ask us about short-term rentals!

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