When To Start Looking For An Apartment

Whether you're moving across the country or just down the road, knowing when to start looking for apartments is essential. While you don't want to wait until the last minute, starting too early can waste time looking at apartments that will be off the market when it's time to rent. If you're getting ready to move, follow these tips from Contemporary Management Concepts, LLLP to perfectly time your apartment hunt.

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Settle On A Move-In Date

It can be helpful to work backward from your projected moving date. For example, if your moving date is tied to a job or school start date, you want to build in enough of a buffer for settling in your new apartment without feeling rushed or underprepared. If you are moving for a change of scenery, you can be more flexible, but it will pay to choose a time when apartments have deals or are looking for renters.

Decide On How You'll Move

There are many ways to move, and most of them require some planning. While this doesn't directly impact your apartment hunting timeline, if you're planning to use a moving service, the availability could impact your moving date or force you to consider an alternative solution. When considering a professional move, be honest about your budget and the services that will make your move less stressful, such as packing and driving.

Consider Options Early

When to start apartment hunting depends on several factors, such as the amenities you want, the area you're moving to, and your budget. The best solution is to start searching at least a few months in advance. If you're moving from out of town, starting early will give you some extra time to plan a trip to see rentals in person. There may also be waiting lists for apartments you're considering, so it's important to get on those ASAP. This is also a good time to get all of the information you'll need when it comes time to rent. Starting early can also help you save for required deposits, typically first month's rent, last month's rent, and a security deposit.

Narrow Down Your Choices

Even if you've found your dream apartment, it's important to have more than one option to fall back on in case that falls through. Begin this process a little more than a month before your move date. It also doesn't hurt to search for other available apartments, as many communities put openings online a month in advance. If you're moving locally, the beginning of the new year is a good time to tour additional locations.

Contact The Leasing Office

Once you've selected at least two or three good options for your new home, begin contacting the leasing offices to see what you would need to do to reserve the apartment for your move-in date. If your first choice doesn't work out, move down the list until you've secured a new place to live.