Start your search early.
Give yourself time to research and tour places. Find out what you like and don’t like. Don’t wait till the last minute and end up signing a lease for a place you don’t really love.
Go in with a list of non-negotiables.
Decide what your non-negotiables are so you can rule out places that do not fit the criteria. For example, you have to have a washer and dryer in unit and can rule out all apartments that do not.
Have a firm budget.
Set a firm budget on how much you are willing to spend. Take into account parking fees, utilities, pet rent, and other fees as well.
Take notes.
Take notes about each community you consider. Note what you like and don’t like so you can refer to it when making your decision.
Ask lots of questions.
Don’t be afraid to ask the leasing agent lots of questions! It is important to make sure you find the right place to call home.