Budget-Friendly Apartment Hunting Tips

Apartment hunting can be fun and exciting, but it can also be a bit difficult, especially if it’s your first time. If you are unsure of where to start and need some pointers before beginning your search, follow these tips to find an apartment you can afford:

Find Roommates

The best way to make an apartment fit your budget is to find roommates to split costs with. Rather than renting a one-bedroom apartment for $800, perhaps you can find a two-bedroom apartment for $1200. Find a roommate, and you can split the cost evenly. You can even split costs on things such as utility bills and furniture. 

Ask the Right Questions

Before applying for a certain apartment, make sure you have asked all the important questions. Some questions include whether or not you will be charged extra for parking or pets. You will also need to know if you will need to pay for your utility usage or if it is included in the rent payment. For more examples of questions to ask before renting, visit our blog. 

Avoid Busy Seasons

Increased demand can cause rent prices to rise. If you are looking for apartments that are close to a university, they tend to experience the highest turnover of renters between semesters, especially during the summer. If the weather in your city changes seasonally, most people will choose to move during the most weather-reliable times. If you search for an apartment during the “off” seasons, it is more likely that your landlord will negotiate with you.

Choose Amenities Wisely

There are many choices you can make that will either make your rent payments higher or lower. For example, renovated units vs. non-renovated units, or in-unit laundry vs. onsite laundry. Making small sacrifices can pay off in the long run if your goal is to save money. 

Negotiate Fixer-Uppers

If your landlord will allow you to make renovations, consider making improvements yourself on a cheaper apartment. This is especially a great option to consider if the apartment just needs a new coat of paint or some new fixtures. If the apartment needs a complete makeover, negotiate with the landlord to pay a lower rent in exchange for doing renovations at your own cost.

Wilson Property Management

Make the most of your time as a tenant with Wilson Property Management. We seek to offer a hands-on management approach to our owners by protecting their investments and enhancing the value of their property. We strive for “property management, leasing, and sales with a personal touch.” Contact us today!