Whether you’re a seasoned renter or looking for your first solo place, finding the perfect apartment can be an overwhelming process. With countless listings, many of which seem far better online than they are in person, how can you tell which place is right for you? Of course, things like square footage and proximity to work are important. But the real deal-breakers are often smaller, everyday details that are easy to overlook until you’ve already moved in. If you’re on the hunt for a new apartment, these are some of the most important things to consider before signing a lease.
Pay Attention to Noise Levels
Always try to tour an apartment in person before making any decisions. When you do, pay close attention to how noisy it is. If the walls are too thin and you can hear all sorts of sounds from neighboring units or the street outside, this can seriously impact your enjoyment of the space. Especially if you’re a remote worker or student, having a private, quiet home is essential for productivity and sleep. If possible, visit the apartment at various times of day to accurately gauge its noisiness.
Check Out the Plumbing
Properly functioning plumbing and adequate water pressure are key in any residence. Plumbing issues are common in apartment buildings, so ensure these systems work well before agreeing to anything. Don’t just take their word for it—test it out yourself by flushing the toilet, running the faucet, and checking the water pressure. If you neglect to check these functions before move-in, it can be a long and stressful affair to get them fixed later on.
Assess the Storage Space
Apartment living often comes with limited space, but that doesn’t mean you should be forced to downsize your belongings to make it work. If the unit doesn’t have enough storage, it can quickly become a cluttered nightmare. Assess things like the size and number of closets, how much space the kitchen cabinets have, and inquire if they have other on-site storage opportunities. Some complexes may offer additional storage for a small fee. Evaluate how much stuff you’ll be bringing in, and realistically decide if it’s spacious enough for you.
Look for Natural Light and Fresh Air
Having enough natural light and fresh air drastically improves your quality of life. While they can be harder to come by in some apartments, insufficiency in either can affect both your mental and physical health. Look at how many windows it has and where they are placed—if they don’t receive much sunlight, they won’t be very helpful. Some units also have windows that open just barely or not at all, so see if they open.
Inquire How They Handle Trash
One of the most practical (and often ignored) things to look into is how the building handles waste. Ensure it has easily accessible dumpsters or a designated trash area. These details matter, especially if you’re moving in with furniture or doing any kind of cleaning. Complexes that offer reliable waste disposal solutions like communal dumpsters or scheduled collection can save you from future hassles and unexpected fees.
Conclusion
Throughout your apartment hunt, remember that even if it looks great, it could still be lacking in the most important areas. Take the time to consider these factors and anything else that’s non-negotiable for you when looking at potential unites. And, if you can’t tour in person, request a virtual walkthrough or get in touch with current residents to get a more accurate idea of whether it will truly work for your lifestyle.
