Ready to upgrade your living space but don’t know where to start? Look no further, we’ve put together the perfect guide for selecting an apartment.
1. Determine a budget
Before you start looking for an apartment, you should determine your budget. Be realistic about what you can afford. Make sure to list out all expenses from rent and utilities to parking and amenities. Don’t forget to include your other expenses, such as groceries or cellphone bills.
Not sure how much you should be spending on rent relative to your income? Consider adopting the 50/30/20 rule. This divides your money into three categories based on your after-tax income: 50% to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt payments.
2. Consider the location
Location and convenience matter! Make a list of potential neighborhoods that you think you would like to live in and why. Take into consideration things like relative proximity to restaurants, grocery stores, work or school, as well as walkability and parking. Remember that what is convenient for you may not be for someone else, so don’t let other people influence your decision.
Pro tip: visit the area and see how it feels. Get a sense of the traffic, ease of getting around and any other factors that are important to you.
3. Determine the size of the apartment
Consider how much space you need based on your lifestyle, family size and personal preferences. An easy way to narrow in on how much space you need is to ask yourself how many bathrooms and bedrooms you want.
Still unsure how much space you need? Check out this full-guide that can help you determine how large of an apartment you need.
4. Check the amenities
Make a list of amenities that are important to you, such as a gym, laundry facilities or parking. Then ask yourself if they are a “nice to have” or a “must have”. Keep in mind that the more amenities an apartment building has the more you can expect to pay in rent.
Need help making a list – check out apartment guide’s most popular apartment amenities list.
5. Visit the apartment in person
It is best to schedule a visit to see the apartment in person. Virtual showings are an option but it can be hard to get a good feel for the space and the size. Visiting in person will help you get a feel for the neighborhood and the space. Try to envision yourself living there and think about how your furniture would fit in the space.
Don’t forget to ask lots of questions about the apartment, amenities, and rules. This will help you determine if the apartment is the right fit for your needs.
There is a lot to consider when finding the right apartment but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Selecting an apartment can be fun! Be sure to follow our five tips to help you select the best apartment for your lifestyle.
For more information on available apartments in Pagosa Springs, call 719-622-3117 x1!
