If you’re new to apartment living, hunting for the right place can seem like an overwhelming and never ending search. There are so many apartments and houses for rent in Athens that it can be hard to know where to start or where to look for the apartment that will best fit your needs. Here are 5 tips to help you get started.
Where to Look
There are many ways to find available apartments for rent. Look in classified ads in the newspaper or online, or drive around to find “for rent” signs nearby. Websites like Craigslist advertise apartments for rent as well, although you should always use caution when meeting someone you don’t know.
Word of mouth is another good way to locate housing. Ask other students where they live and how they like their Athens, OH, university off-campus housing.
Take a Tour
Once you find a few apartments that interest you, start scheduling tours at places like Athens, Ohio, Court Street Apartments. Before you go, make a list of things you can’t live without and things you would like if they fit in your budget. This will help you eliminate some of the apartments and choose the housing that best fits your need.
When you visit Athens, OH, apartments for rent, take a look at the condition of the buildings and whether the apartment and appliances seem to be in good condition. Take a friend with you, since they may catch things that you miss. This is also your chance to ask the landlord specific questions, such as whether pets are allowed or how much a typical monthly energy bill costs.
Talk to Tenants
If possible, it’s always a good idea to talk to current tenants of the apartment complex. This gives you a better idea of what it’s like to live there: how hard it is to find parking, whether there are any loud neighbors, and how quickly management replies to repair requests. It will also give you a good idea of who your future neighbors are likely to be and whether you feel like you fit in.
Expand Your Search
If your budget is your main concern, one way to save money is by looking a little further away. Apartments that are close to the center of the city and other points of interest are usually more expensive than those even 15 or 20 minutes away. If you don’t mind driving or walking a little bit more, you may be able to save a few hundred dollars a month.
Find Ways to Save Money
There are other ways to save money when looking for an apartment. If you’re living on your own, check out studio apartments for rent in Athens, OH. The smaller space is much less expensive than a traditional 1- or 2-bedroom apartment. On the other hand, looking for a roommate or two can help you save money if you decide to split a larger place. You can also talk to your landlord to see if there are other ways to lower your rent. For example, you can often get a lower rate by paying for a month or more at a time instead of paying weekly or by-weekly. Get in touch with Wharton Rentals to find out more about great apartment options in Athens!
