If you do enough research beforehand, you will be able to take maximum advantage of your visits to the new area. Once you're physically at the places that your research has made you feel confident about, you can look at units and check more carefully for major problems and other things, such as water pressure and temperature control.
You may not be able to find out everything about an apartment complex, but the more you know, the better off you will be.
If it seems like too much work to do by phone or Internet, you might want to find a place with a short-term lease to give yourself the freedom to change your mind without penalty.
Make sure you write down the information on all applicable categories when visiting different buildings and units. Don't forget to keep track of comments from residents. Below, I've listed things apartment searchers should include in a checklist; add items that are important to you.
A digital camera would come in handy on your trip, too, so that you can easily jog your memory about a specific unit after you have done a long day of apartment shopping in an unfamiliar place. Of course, your perfect place may not exist, but by investigating, you'll know better what's most important to you in an apartment.
Apartment Hunter's Checklist
• General. Monthly rent, number of bedrooms, square footage, number of occupants allowed, guest policy, utilities included.
• Lease details. Date available, lease term, penalty for breaking lease, security deposit, late rent policies, rules for changing unit appearance (i.e., repainting).
• Fees. Parking availability and fees, pet policy and fees, amenity fee and other miscellaneous charges.
• Building amenities. Lobby, pool, workout facility, roof deck, computer access, package delivery system.
• Unit amenities. Central air conditioning or window unit, central heat or radiator, laundry system, kitchen appliances, closet space, water pressure, type of flooring, windows and sunlight, patio, balcony, fireplace, cathedral ceilings, crown molding, cable-ready.
• Unit location. Distance from stairs, elevator, garbage area.
• Neighborhood. Access to public transportation and major roads, nearest grocery store, pharmacy, parks, schools, hospital and police station.
• Safety. Crime statistics, building and unit security features, building fire safety.
• Maintenance. On-site landlord, on-site maintenance, building age, planned upgrades or construction.
Do you have questions, comments or ideas about apartment life? Contact Sara Gebhardt via e-mail at gebhardts@washpost.comor by mail, c/o Real Estate Editor. The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, DC 20071.
