It is easy to become overwhelmed while apartment hunting, especially if it’s your first time! The most important thing to know is that it is never too soon to start apartment hunting, but it can definitely be too late! Although apartments advertise available leases, prices rise significantly the longer you wait to sign. The best strategy is to start looking for a place to live early in the year.
Here’s a list of questions you should ask when comparing and contrasting different apartment complexes:
How far is the complex from the university and/or your work?
How much is the apartment deposit? Is it refundable? What are the terms for a refund? It’s important to know your options, especially if you are strongly considering more than one apartment.
How much is rent? Is it a monthly cost? If so, what day of the month is it due?
Are utilities included in the rent payment, or do you need to set up separate utility payments through the city? Some apartments include utilities with the rent fee, but others make the renter(s) set up accounts with city utilities. This is something a renter needs to be prepared for, especially if there are roommates involved.
Are there any other fees for which the renter is responsible?
Does the complex offer bus service between the complex and the university? How frequent are the pick-ups and drop-offs? Is the service a separate charge, or is it included in the rent? This service is helpful if the renter doesn’t have a vehicle, the weather is bad, or a campus parking pass is currently an unnecessary expense.
What features does the rent payment allow the renter to access? Does rent include gym and pool access, for example?
Are washers and dryers available? Typically there will be, but some complexes have a shared laundry facility for the entire complex. It’s important to know what to expect from the apartment complex before you sign the lease.
Is Wifi provided? Is it an extra cost?
How is cellphone reception in and around the complex?
Is the apartment furnished or unfurnished?
Is there assigned parking? Is there a covered parking option? If so, what additional cost would be incurred?
Is maintenance for the complex included in the rent fee? This question will allow the renter to understand what costs are associated with certain types of maintenance and how they vary from complex to complex.
Are there personnel and/or security on call at night? This is a great feature to have in an apartment complex. Not only does
it allow the renter to feel safe, but it eases the minds of parents and guardians as well.
Is there a snow removal system? When does it begin? Does it include sidewalks, driveways AND parking lots? This may not seem important now, but Columbia has been hit by two big snowstorms in the last three years. It’s good to be prepared.
Have there been any bedbug and/or serious bug problems within the complex? This is always good to know. Who wants to live somewhere that has such problems?
How much time does the lease cover? Are there different length options? What are the move-in and move-out days?
What are the terms and potential costs of subleasing your unit to a third party?
If you ever need to sublease for reasons like joining a study-abroad program, it is important to know if there will be fees incurred for “breaking” contract to sublease to another individual.
Don’t feel overwhelmed. Just take a few deep breaths and use these questions to narrow down which apartment complexes best fit you! It’s important to find a place that supports your needs, so don’t rush the hunt for apartments. Give yourself some time, relax, and find an apartment that best supports your finances, preferences, and needs.
Good luck with your hunt!