A Guide for First Time Renters
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Becoming a first-time apartment renter is both thrilling and overwhelming. You're on your own for the first time in your life, but that means you're also responsible for everything. There's no help with paying rent from your parents, and no one is going to remind you when that power bill is due. But that's okay. You can handle it. Just start with this renters guide from CreditBox:
Create a Budget
The first thing you need to know about how to rent an apartment is you need to start with a budget. The general rule is your rent shouldn't cost more than 30 percent of your income. For example, if you make $4,000 a month, you shouldn't look for an apartment that is more than $1,200 a month. After all, you'll need money for things like utilities, insurance, food, gas, and other necessities.
Make a List of What You Need, Then What You Want
Once you have a budget in mind, it's time to see what's available that matches your budget. Any renters guide will tell you that you should always start by making a list of what you need in an apartment. For example, you may need a place that's close to work or school. You may need a place that accepts pets, if you have one. You may need a place with two bedrooms if you think you'll need a roommate to help pay the rent.
Once you have your needs listed, list the things you want. These are amenities that you'd like to have, such as a swimming pool or a gym on site, but that you can live without if you must.
See the Apartment in Person
As a first-time apartment renter, you may assume it's ok to find something online and fill out an application. But if you aren't sure how to rent an apartment, it's always best to see the place in person. Pictures and videos can be deceiving. Unless you're moving far away, it's best to schedule an appointment with the property manager to meet and take a tour of the complex and the apartment that's available, or one like it. You can get a feel for the neighborhood, find out what the parking is like, talk to the neighbors, and see if the place feels right or not.
Read the Application and Lease Carefully
The application process typically involves filling out some basic information, providing references, paying a fee, and consenting to a credit check. If you're a first-time apartment renter, you may need a co-signer. That's someone who will provide help paying rent or pay off your debt if you aren't able to do it. The lease may be a little more complicated. If you aren't exactly sure how to rent an apartment, consider letting someone more experienced look it over for you. It will include rules about deposits, parking spaces, whether pets are allowed, and who is responsible for repairs and utility payments.
Plan Ahead for Your Move
Once you've signed your lease, start planning your move right away. Will you hire someone to move your stuff or will you ask some friends to help you? Will you be buying new furniture or bringing stuff from your current place? Consider going through your belongings and selling the items you no longer need. Use the money for assistance with rent and other bills in your future home.
Even the best renters guide won't prepare you for life on your own. At CreditBox, we understand there will always be unexpected expenses you may not have included in your budget. That's why we offer same day loans. On the CreditBox website, you can apply for same day loans, using our fast, easy, and secure application. To learn more about same day loans and how they work contact our customer support team today.
Create a Budget
The first thing you need to know about how to rent an apartment is you need to start with a budget. The general rule is your rent shouldn't cost more than 30 percent of your income. For example, if you make $4,000 a month, you shouldn't look for an apartment that is more than $1,200 a month. After all, you'll need money for things like utilities, insurance, food, gas, and other necessities.
Make a List of What You Need, Then What You Want
Once you have a budget in mind, it's time to see what's available that matches your budget. Any renters guide will tell you that you should always start by making a list of what you need in an apartment. For example, you may need a place that's close to work or school. You may need a place that accepts pets, if you have one. You may need a place with two bedrooms if you think you'll need a roommate to help pay the rent.
Once you have your needs listed, list the things you want. These are amenities that you'd like to have, such as a swimming pool or a gym on site, but that you can live without if you must.
See the Apartment in Person
As a first-time apartment renter, you may assume it's ok to find something online and fill out an application. But if you aren't sure how to rent an apartment, it's always best to see the place in person. Pictures and videos can be deceiving. Unless you're moving far away, it's best to schedule an appointment with the property manager to meet and take a tour of the complex and the apartment that's available, or one like it. You can get a feel for the neighborhood, find out what the parking is like, talk to the neighbors, and see if the place feels right or not.
Read the Application and Lease Carefully
The application process typically involves filling out some basic information, providing references, paying a fee, and consenting to a credit check. If you're a first-time apartment renter, you may need a co-signer. That's someone who will provide help paying rent or pay off your debt if you aren't able to do it. The lease may be a little more complicated. If you aren't exactly sure how to rent an apartment, consider letting someone more experienced look it over for you. It will include rules about deposits, parking spaces, whether pets are allowed, and who is responsible for repairs and utility payments.
Plan Ahead for Your Move
Once you've signed your lease, start planning your move right away. Will you hire someone to move your stuff or will you ask some friends to help you? Will you be buying new furniture or bringing stuff from your current place? Consider going through your belongings and selling the items you no longer need. Use the money for assistance with rent and other bills in your future home.
Even the best renters guide won't prepare you for life on your own. At CreditBox, we understand there will always be unexpected expenses you may not have included in your budget. That's why we offer same day loans. On the CreditBox website, you can apply for same day loans, using our fast, easy, and secure application. To learn more about same day loans and how they work contact our customer support team today.
