1. Pay what you can afford
Fancy accommodations are tempting, but it’s important to rent what you can reasonably afford. Don’t put yourself in the position of being shortchanged on other needs. Draft a budget for yourself, be complete and realistic. Remember that a low-priced apartment doesn’t have to indicate that it’s undesirable.

2. Shop around.
The place you pick likely will be “home” for a quite a while, so ensure it satisfies your requirements (or as many as possible). Downplay things like multiple swimming pools or fancy landscaping that aren’t as important as your comfort.

3. Look for reputable ownership.
It’s a sound idea to search for an apartment in a complex run by a well-known management company. You’ll generally get very strong commitment to serving your interests. Most of these complexes also have websites you can visit to get details before you talk with them. You’ll usually get more for your money as well.

4. Make a detailed inspection and take notes
As you look at apartments, create a record for each one. Note the things you like plus anything that’s missing or cost extra. Take a tape measure and get the dimensions of rooms to make sure your furniture will fit. Try out the utilities including lights, water, heating and air conditioning, laundry and so forth. Ask residents how they like
living there.

5. Be familiar with apartment sharing.
If you plan to share an apartment, remember that all parties must be named in the lease. If one of them needs to leave, you must meet specific provisions. Be sure you understand how deposits, utilities and such are to be handled when someone movesout.

6. By all means ask questions!
You’ll want to know such things as whether your apartment be get new with new paint, carpet et cetera; whether there’s internet access available; how heating an cooling are controlled; the smoking policy; pets policy; and information about security and cleaning deposits.

7. Know what’s in the documents you sign.
Prior to putting your signature on a document, be sure you understand its terms. Is the rent you were quoted correctly reflected? Is everything clear to you? Don’t be afraid to ask for time to review things, then get some trusted help.

8. Become familiar with your credit rating.
It’s highly recommended that you get a copy of your credit report. Property owners often will view yours before they rent to you. Even if you have a good rating, your report might include inaccuracies or old data. Be sure to address needed such things

9. Think about renter’s insurance.
Apartment living can be prone to risk from fire or theft. Look for “Replacement Cost Coverage” policies, which replace anything that’s damaged. Also find out about coverage for burglary.

10. Know what it takes to break your lease.
You might have to move before your lease expires. So understand how to terminate