selecting an apartment

Details to Consider Before Making Your Choice…

The location of the apartment in the building or within the complex can influence your satisfaction. . . while a location next to the pool may seem desirable, consider the noise factor.

When you're looking for an apartment consider: rent, costs of utilities and location. Also consider the design of the apartment since this can influence how long you'll be satisfied with it.

The number of bedrooms and the sizes of the bedrooms are important, and will affect the amount of the rent. An apartment with two floors may seem more like a house because there is more privacy when bedrooms are separated from the rest of the apartment. Entrances are usually private, and there may be more than one entrance to a two-floor apartment. Check the entry for size and location. It should be convenient, attractive and safe. One-floor apartments are better for families who need to avoid climbing stairs or who prefer to avoid frequent trips up and down stairs.

If You Have Young Children consider…

• You may prefer a ground floor location so you can watch your children play outdoors.
• You may want a dining area in the kitchen where the floor surface is easier to clean.
• A balcony can be hazardous for small children.
• Visit the play area and talk with other parents.

Utility Costs to consider…

An apartment located between two others and on a lower floor may have lower utility costs than an apartment located on an end of the building or on top of the building. The local utility company may be able to tell you about the average bills for a particular address for the preceding year so you'll have an idea about expenses. Large windows with a pleasant view can add to your enjoyment, but they may increase your utility bills and lessen your privacy.

These suggestions may be helpful when you start looking at apartments:

• Try to see the apartment when it is furnished. An empty apartment looks larger.
• Take a tape measure with you and jot down measurements.
• Note window and door locations.
• Make a sketch of the floor plan and try to fit your furniture in different possible locations on your drawing.
• Be sure your furniture will fit the rooms and that it will fit through the doors when you're moving in.
• Check closet space, other storage space and the kitchen counter.
• If there's only one bathroom, be sure it will accommodate you family.
• Visit the apartment in the evening or on a weekend when most people will be home for an idea of how much sound is transmitted between apartments.
• A balcony or patio is pleasant for outdoor cooking, growing plants and relaxing, but its usefulness is limited if there is no privacy.
• Check the appliances to see if they meet your needs. A dish washer, a clothes washer and dryer are important to some families.
• Turn on taps in the kitchen and the bathroom to test water pressure.
• Talk with someone who lives in the building or complex.
• Read the lease before you sign it.

Ask the Rental Agent…

• About information on floor and wall finishes
• About the hot water heater and how many families it serves.
• About management policies.
• About what is and what is not permitted and what the management will or will not do.
• About painting of rooms; hanging pictures; grounds maintenance and other public spaces, such as laundry rooms;
• garbage collection; and the policy on pets.

Attention to details will reward you with satisfaction after you move in.

For more information on selecting an apartment, contact your local county Extension office.