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  If you’re renting an apartment for the first time, you’ll know that it can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s a big step towards independence, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. From finding the right living space to signing the tenancy agreement, there are many things to consider. Here are six tips to help make the process of renting your first apartment easier.
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Determine Your Budget

Before you start looking for an apartment, you should determine your budget. Ideally, your yearly rent should be no more than 30% of your annual income, so figure out what you can afford and stick to it. Besides paying for the space, you’ll also have to purchase things like furniture (if you don’t already have them) and settle utility bills. Factor these into your total cost of moving.

Research the Area

Once you have a budget in mind, research the area where you want to live. Consider factors such as safety, transportation, and local amenities. Find out what the crime rate is like, examine its accessibility and public transportation options, and investigate the presence of nearby grocery stores, restaurants, and other shops. You can also tour the neighbourhood to get a feel of the area.

Start Your Search Early

Start your search for an apartment early to give yourself plenty of time to find the right place. Begin by looking online at rental listings, or check with local real estate agents. It’s important to view several apartments to compare prices, features, and locations. Only settle for one that’s the closest match to your preferred specifications.
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Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the locations you’re weighing up. Ask the agents concerned (or the landlords) about the tenancy agreement, utilities, parking, and any maintenance or repair responsibilities. You may also want to inquire about noise levels and pest control, both of which could be crucial to maintaining a fair degree of comfort in a potential new home.

Read the Tenancy Agreement Carefully

Before signing the tenancy agreement, read it carefully and make sure you understand all the terms and conditions. Pay attention to details such as miscellaneous fees, rent due dates, and penalties for going against the terms stipulated in the document. If there is anything you don’t understand, ask the landlord or a legal professional for clarification.

Clean Before Moving In

Whether it’s a newly built abode or one that has been occupied by a previous tenant, your apartment will almost certainly need a thorough cleaning before it’ll be fit for dwelling. Depending on the nature and volume of trash there, you may either undertake the cleaning yourself, with the help of a few friends or be aided by cleaning service providers.
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Final Words

Renting an apartment for the first time can be a daunting experience, but by following these tips, you can make the process smoother and more manageable. Be sure to research multiple candidate locations, ask questions about them, and go for one that most closely matches your preferred specifications. Do these things, and you’ll be closer to achieving a positive renting experience. Featured Image Source: Credit Karma
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This article was first published on 6th April 2023

ikenna-nwachukwu

Ikenna Nwachukwu holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He loves to look at the world through multiple lenses- economic, political, religious and philosophical- and to write about what he observes in a witty, yet reflective style.

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