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The post 7 Tips for Apartment Hunting to Make Things Way Easier_v3 appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>Approximately one in five Americans moved during 2020 – and another 20% plan to do so in 2021!
For renters, that means more competition when it comes to in-demand locations and apartments. But, it also makes this an excellent time to enter the market, with more options than ever before when it comes to apartment living.
We know that the search for a new home can be a stressful one. But, it doesn't have to be! Follow these tips for apartment hunting for a worry-free experience from start to finish.
Best Apartment Hunting Tips to Follow
1. Savings
There's no perfect number when it comes to how much you should save. But, having your first and last month's rent plus all of your deposits tucked away is absolutely essential.
You'll also want a bit of extra cash put aside for moving expenses like boxes and tape, gas, and convenience items to help the process go more smoothly.
These added costs may be tax-deductible, so don't forget to save your receipts!
If you're moving into your first apartment, you'll also want some extra savings for first home expenses that you might not have considered yet. Small items like silverware, hangers, and decorative items can add up to significant unexpected spending if you don't plan ahead.
2. Insurance
Even if you're moving into a safe and fun neighborhood, you'll still want to take out renters insurance. These policies protect you and your home from serious and unforeseen circumstances like robbery, fire, and natural disasters. And, they cost less than you might think!
Some apartments require you to carry insurance. But, even if your community of choice doesn't, you're better off safe than sorry. Plus, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're covered is well worth the added expense.
The right renters' insurance may also protect you from legal repercussions if someone gets hurt on your property. And, some contracts include protection for vehicles and other valuables stored on site.
3. Proper Documents
Rental applications and contracts can be time-consuming, especially if you don't have all of your paperwork in order. Before you start shopping, make a list of all your state and complex of choice's requirements. And, be sure you have multiple copies on hand!
Some standard documentation required for renters includes past pay stubs, tax returns, proof of employment, criminal background, and personal or professional references.
4. Must-Have Features
Before you decide on a neighborhood, complex, or apartment, you'll want to list out all the features your new dream home should have. That way, you won't get distracted later on when it's time to start touring individual units.
So, which conveniences and characteristics can you not live without?
Essential amenities include air conditioning, outdoor areas like terraces or gardens, extra room for entertaining, natural stone counters, free cable and internet, on-suite laundry facilities, and a good view. You'll also want to decide on vital details like whether you want the freedom to paint and decorate your new home, and whether you plan to have pets.
5. Budgeting
There's no sense in falling in love with an apartment that you can't afford. So, before you start shopping, it's absolutely essential to set a budget – and stick to it.
You should never plan to spend more than 25% of your monthly income on housing. And, it's important to shop around.
Just because you found a good apartment at a fair price doesn't mean you have to settle. There could be an even better option right around the corner!
You should include monthly recurring expenses like insurance in your budget, and remember to leave a little bit of wiggle room, so you aren't financially maxed out every month.
6. Shop Smart
When it comes time to start shopping for your new apartment, you'll want to decide on a location first. This could be a specific part of town or neighborhood. Or, maybe you already have the apartment complex of your dreams in mind.
Remember to visit the area where you want to live on different days of the week and during different parts of the day and night before settling. This will help you get an accurate idea of what the area is like at all hours – not just when you go for a viewing.
If you've decided on an area or apartment complex already, you're ready for a walk-through. This tour gives you a chance to look for any health or safety hazards on or around the property. And, it's your opportunity to look for maintenance concerns and other major issues as well.
Don't forget to check out how much storage the home has, whether the appliances are all in working order, and what the neighbors are like, too!
7. Hire Help
Unless you're already an expert in apartment shopping, you might need a bit of extra help when it comes time to start the process. Not to worry. A professional realtor or apartment locator can help!
These industry experts can assist with budgeting and shopping, narrowing down your search in a fraction of the time. They can also lend a hand when it comes to paperwork, deposits, and renters contracts. And, while it may seem like an unnecessary expense at first, streamlining your search can actually add up to big savings.
It takes the average renter two to three months to find their new home. But, the right hired help can bring this number down to a matter of weeks.
More Tips for Apartment Hunting
Armed with these tips for apartment hunting, you're ready to begin the search. Congratulations! Reading this blog may have been the first step toward finding your new home.
Do you have more questions about your upcoming move? Need more pro tips on scoring the apartment of your dreams? No worries, we've got you covered.
Contact us today to check our apartment availability or schedule a free tour. You can also call our office at (225) 612-1467. Our friendly team is standing by and happy to help!
The post 7 Tips for Apartment Hunting to Make Things Way Easier_v3 appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>The post 7 Tips… appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>
Are you downsizing your home, moving to a new town, or heading off to college or a new job? If so, you aren't alone.
Approximately one in five Americans moved during 2020 – and another 20% plan to do so in 2021!
For renters, that means more competition when it comes to in-demand locations and apartments. But, it also makes this an excellent time to enter the market, with more options than ever before when it comes to apartment living.
We know that the search for a new home can be a stressful one. But, it doesn't have to be! Follow these tips for apartment hunting for a worry-free experience from start to finish.
Best Apartment Hunting Tips to Follow
1. Savings
There's no perfect number when it comes to how much you should save. But, having your first and last month's rent plus all of your deposits tucked away is absolutely essential.
You'll also want a bit of extra cash put aside for moving expenses like boxes and tape, gas, and convenience items to help the process go more smoothly.
These added costs may be tax-deductible, so don't forget to save your receipts!
If you're moving into your first apartment, you'll also want some extra savings for first home expenses that you might not have considered yet. Small items like silverware, hangers, and decorative items can add up to significant unexpected spending if you don't plan ahead.
2. Insurance
Even if you're moving into a safe and fun neighborhood, you'll still want to take out renters insurance. These policies protect you and your home from serious and unforeseen circumstances like robbery, fire, and natural disasters. And, they cost less than you might think!
Some apartments require you to carry insurance. But, even if your community of choice doesn't, you're better off safe than sorry. Plus, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're covered is well worth the added expense.
The right renters' insurance may also protect you from legal repercussions if someone gets hurt on your property. And, some contracts include protection for vehicles and other valuables stored on site.
3. Proper Documents
Rental applications and contracts can be time-consuming, especially if you don't have all of your paperwork in order. Before you start shopping, make a list of all your state and complex of choice's requirements. And, be sure you have multiple copies on hand!
Some standard documentation required for renters includes past pay stubs, tax returns, proof of employment, criminal background, and personal or professional references.
4. Must-Have Features
Before you decide on a neighborhood, complex, or apartment, you'll want to list out all the features your new dream home should have. That way, you won't get distracted later on when it's time to start touring individual units.
So, which conveniences and characteristics can you not live without?
Essential amenities include air conditioning, outdoor areas like terraces or gardens, extra room for entertaining, natural stone counters, free cable and internet, on-suite laundry facilities, and a good view. You'll also want to decide on vital details like whether you want the freedom to paint and decorate your new home, and whether you plan to have pets.
5. Budgeting
There's no sense in falling in love with an apartment that you can't afford. So, before you start shopping, it's absolutely essential to set a budget – and stick to it.
You should never plan to spend more than 25% of your monthly income on housing. And, it's important to shop around.
Just because you found a good apartment at a fair price doesn't mean you have to settle. There could be an even better option right around the corner!
You should include monthly recurring expenses like insurance in your budget, and remember to leave a little bit of wiggle room, so you aren't financially maxed out every month.
6. Shop Smart
When it comes time to start shopping for your new apartment, you'll want to decide on a location first. This could be a specific part of town or neighborhood. Or, maybe you already have the apartment complex of your dreams in mind.
Remember to visit the area where you want to live on different days of the week and during different parts of the day and night before settling. This will help you get an accurate idea of what the area is like at all hours – not just when you go for a viewing.
If you've decided on an area or apartment complex already, you're ready for a walk-through. This tour gives you a chance to look for any health or safety hazards on or around the property. And, it's your opportunity to look for maintenance concerns and other major issues as well.
Don't forget to check out how much storage the home has, whether the appliances are all in working order, and what the neighbors are like, too!
7. Hire Help
Unless you're already an expert in apartment shopping, you might need a bit of extra help when it comes time to start the process. Not to worry. A professional realtor or apartment locator can help!
These industry experts can assist with budgeting and shopping, narrowing down your search in a fraction of the time. They can also lend a hand when it comes to paperwork, deposits, and renters contracts. And, while it may seem like an unnecessary expense at first, streamlining your search can actually add up to big savings.
It takes the average renter two to three months to find their new home. But, the right hired help can bring this number down to a matter of weeks.
More Tips for Apartment Hunting
Armed with these tips for apartment hunting, you're ready to begin the search. Congratulations! Reading this blog may have been the first step toward finding your new home.
Do you have more questions about your upcoming move? Need more pro tips on scoring the apartment of your dreams? No worries, we've got you covered.
Contact us today to check our apartment availability or schedule a free tour. You can also call our office at (225) 612-1467. Our friendly team is standing by and happy to help!
The post 7 Tips… appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
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CLICK HERE for a Larger View!
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]]>The post 7 Tips for Apartment Hunting to Make Things Way Easier appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>Approximately one in five Americans moved during 2020 – and another 20% plan to do so in 2021!
For renters, that means more competition when it comes to in-demand locations and apartments. But, it also makes this an excellent time to enter the market, with more options than ever before when it comes to apartment living.
We know that the search for a new home can be a stressful one. But, it doesn't have to be! Follow these tips for apartment hunting for a worry-free experience from start to finish.
Best Apartment Hunting Tips to Follow
1. Savings
There's no perfect number when it comes to how much you should save. But, having your first and last month's rent plus all of your deposits tucked away is absolutely essential.
You'll also want a bit of extra cash put aside for moving expenses like boxes and tape, gas, and convenience items to help the process go more smoothly.
These added costs may be tax-deductible, so don't forget to save your receipts!
If you're moving into your first apartment, you'll also want some extra savings for first home expenses that you might not have considered yet. Small items like silverware, hangers, and decorative items can add up to significant unexpected spending if you don't plan ahead.
2. Insurance
Even if you're moving into a safe and fun neighborhood, you'll still want to take out renters insurance. These policies protect you and your home from serious and unforeseen circumstances like robbery, fire, and natural disasters. And, they cost less than you might think!
Some apartments require you to carry insurance. But, even if your community of choice doesn't, you're better off safe than sorry. Plus, the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're covered is well worth the added expense.
The right renters' insurance may also protect you from legal repercussions if someone gets hurt on your property. And, some contracts include protection for vehicles and other valuables stored on site.
3. Proper Documents
Rental applications and contracts can be time-consuming, especially if you don't have all of your paperwork in order. Before you start shopping, make a list of all your state and complex of choice's requirements. And, be sure you have multiple copies on hand!
Some standard documentation required for renters includes past pay stubs, tax returns, proof of employment, criminal background, and personal or professional references.
4. Must-Have Features
Before you decide on a neighborhood, complex, or apartment, you'll want to list out all the features your new dream home should have. That way, you won't get distracted later on when it's time to start touring individual units.
So, which conveniences and characteristics can you not live without?
Essential amenities include air conditioning, outdoor areas like terraces or gardens, extra room for entertaining, natural stone counters, free cable and internet, on-suite laundry facilities, and a good view. You'll also want to decide on vital details like whether you want the freedom to paint and decorate your new home, and whether you plan to have pets.
5. Budgeting
There's no sense in falling in love with an apartment that you can't afford. So, before you start shopping, it's absolutely essential to set a budget – and stick to it.
You should never plan to spend more than 25% of your monthly income on housing. And, it's important to shop around.
Just because you found a good apartment at a fair price doesn't mean you have to settle. There could be an even better option right around the corner!
You should include monthly recurring expenses like insurance in your budget, and remember to leave a little bit of wiggle room, so you aren't financially maxed out every month.
6. Shop Smart
When it comes time to start shopping for your new apartment, you'll want to decide on a location first. This could be a specific part of town or neighborhood. Or, maybe you already have the apartment complex of your dreams in mind.
Remember to visit the area where you want to live on different days of the week and during different parts of the day and night before settling. This will help you get an accurate idea of what the area is like at all hours – not just when you go for a viewing.
If you've decided on an area or apartment complex already, you're ready for a walk-through. This tour gives you a chance to look for any health or safety hazards on or around the property. And, it's your opportunity to look for maintenance concerns and other major issues as well.
Don't forget to check out how much storage the home has, whether the appliances are all in working order, and what the neighbors are like, too!
7. Hire Help
Unless you're already an expert in apartment shopping, you might need a bit of extra help when it comes time to start the process. Not to worry. A professional realtor or apartment locator can help!
These industry experts can assist with budgeting and shopping, narrowing down your search in a fraction of the time. They can also lend a hand when it comes to paperwork, deposits, and renters contracts. And, while it may seem like an unnecessary expense at first, streamlining your search can actually add up to big savings.
It takes the average renter two to three months to find their new home. But, the right hired help can bring this number down to a matter of weeks.
More Tips for Apartment Hunting
Armed with these tips for apartment hunting, you're ready to begin the search. Congratulations! Reading this blog may have been the first step toward finding your new home.
Do you have more questions about your upcoming move? Need more pro tips on scoring the apartment of your dreams? No worries, we've got you covered.
Contact us today to check our apartment availability or schedule a free tour. You can also call our office at (225) 612-1467. Our friendly team is standing by and happy to help!
The post 7 Tips for Apartment Hunting to Make Things Way Easier appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>The post 10 Tips To Help You Live On Your Own For The First Time appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
]]>What's it like to live alone for the first time?
It doesn't matter if you're living on your own at 18 or living on your own at 45, every first-time apartment seeker needs a few tips to help them make the transition.
In the guide below, we wrote out several helpful tips for living on your own for the first time. Continue reading to find out everything there is to know!
Create a Budget and Stick To It
When you create a budget for yourself, you will have a better idea of an apartment you can afford.
Being able to pay rent and have enough money left over to live comfortably is incredibly important when living on your own. Creating a budget will ensure you pay all your bills on time and save money to do fun things with.
A great way to learn what you can afford is to take your monthly income and then subtract an estimated cost of all living expenses.
Some living expenses include the following: rent, energy/electricity, water, food, cell phone costs, and more. Make sure you have enough to cover these costs on a monthly basis.
There are a few ways to save money while living alone as well.
For example, turn the air conditioning unit up or down depending on the weather outside to prevent it from having to work hard. You can also shop at second-hand shops for various items like furniture, decor, clothing, etc to help save money!
To help keep your water bill down, try taking showers rather than baths to help you save money on utilities and water!
Feel Safe
Moving out on your own can create a sense of fear for some who are used to having other people around them all the time.
There are a few ways to ease the anxiety of being alone. When selecting an apartment, make sure it's located in a safe neighborhood and in a well-lit area.
It's also a great idea to ask the apartments if the lock changed from the previous owner. If not, you can ask to have them replaced to add to your ease of mind.
This also helps to know you won't have to worry about previous owners having spare keys.
Living in an apartment offers a whole new set of noises you may not be familiar with.
To help distinguish between the sound of your neighbor's door opening and yours, you can hang bells on all windows and entryways to let you know when anyone comes through the door or enters through a window.
Become Self-Reliant
Living with others can reduce responsibilities, but now that you're living on your own, you need to learn to become more independent.
There are several things you'll need to learn how to do, such as how to keep the place clean and how to cook yourself meals.
You'll also need to prepare to do your own laundry and fix any minor issues in the home like a wobbly table or chair.
If you can start to do some of these things now before you move out, it'll help you with the transition of being on your own.
When you're ready to be on your own, you'll have the experience and confidence needed to tackle any issue!
Try to Meet New People
Moving out on your own is beneficial in many ways. A home you can look forward to living in can do wonders for your mental health.
Living on your own allows you the peace and quiet you may need to unwind from the day or rewatch the same TV series for the 15th time without being judged. (You know who you are!)
While being on your own opens to door for these freedoms, it's also important to remember not to completely isolate yourself, however.
Self-isolation can cause depression and heighten the feeling of being alone. Instead, make a point to get out of the house either on a daily basis or a few times a week.
Find people to make new friends with either at work or from home to keep you active. If you are having a hard time finding people to hang out with, apps like MeetUp are great at pairing up like-minded people. You may just find your new best friend!
If you find someone who enjoys the same hobbies as you do, then you can join clubs together or go out and enjoy those hobbies together.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
Getting to know your neighbors is more important than you think.
You don't need to become best friends with your neighbors, although this is possible! It is nice to have a good relationship with them for various reasons.
For example, if you go away for a few days, your neighbors are great options to watch your house/apartment when you're away.
You can also ask them to pick up your mail for you when you're away or lend you a hand when needed. You never know when you might need some sugar or milk.
Learn to Cook
Learning to cook is another necessity if you live alone and want to save some money.
Cooking your own meals will help you save since the cost is cheaper than eating out all the time.
If you're not sure how to cook your own meals, then you can start out by making simple recipes and then working your way up to more complex ones.
The internet is a great place to watch cooking videos and learning basic cooking information when starting out on your own!
If you still find yourself hopeless in the kitchen, there are some grocery stores that have meals already prepared and ready to go or you can have premade meals sent to your home. All you have to do is heat them up and enjoy!
Get Into the Habit of Cleaning Up
When you lived with family, you might not have needed to clean up all the time.
You may have been in charge of cleaning your room, but now, you're responsible for keeping the entire home clean so you can keep away rodents and bugs.
The kitchen, bedrooms, living room, and yes, the bathroom will all need to be cleaned.
To make cleaning easier, you can set up a weekly schedule for yourself.
Break down all the cleaning tasks into small separate tasks that you can do throughout the week to help reduce the amount of cleaning.
For example, you can make it a rule that every night before bed, you wash the dishes in the sink. This will help reduce the number of dishes that pile up and save you from using a frisbee as a plate.
Go Out
Don't forget to get out of the apartment every now and then as well. Like we mentioned before, completely isolating yourself is not good for your mental health.
Stepping out to meet up with friends or to grab a coffee at a local coffee shop will help you feel less lonely and keep you in better spirits.
Even if you visit a nearby park to read a book or complete a crossword puzzle, it's still good to be out and about and tear yourself away from your couch.
Your apartment building may offer some amenities to encourage you to leave your apartment. if your community has a pool, you can spend an afternoon soaking in the sun and working on your tan!
Get a Pet
Another wonderful way to feel less lonely is to get a pet.
When considering a pet, keep in mind you'll be adding more responsibilities to your life, like
There are some pets that are easier than others, though. For example, a fish or hamster will be less expensive than owning a puppy or kitten. Once you know what type of pet you want, make sure to add up all the expenses of owning them and add it to your budget.
You should also ensure you have the time needed to devote to your new pet. Once you set up a routine, you and your new pet will then have a schedule to stick to.
Before buying a pet though, make sure you refer to your lease agreement. There are some properties that do not allow pets or only allow certain breeds of cats/dogs so we recommend discussing this with your leasing agent.
It could be possible that you may want to get a pet after your settled and in a routine. If that's the case then you should find pet-friendly apartments in your desired location to move into!
Take Your Time Buying Furniture
Moving out on your own can get expensive. Instead of buying all your new furniture at one time, you can find pieces every month or so until you work your way up to a fully furnished home.
We understand that getting your own place is exciting, and you may feel tempted to splurge on furniture but it's important that you resist the urge.
It's better to take it slow at first, only buying the essential items first like a couch, table, dishware, etc.
This will help you avoid making impulse buys and save you money.
Another great way to save money on furniture is to visit second-hand stores or use different selling apps to find furniture at a discount.
Is Living Alone Hard?
There's no simple answer to that question because people have different definitions of something being difficult. The better question to ask is: Is there more responsibility when living alone?
There definitely is and it can be challenging at times too.
Before, when you lived at home, you didn't have to worry about bills, cleaning, or cooking. But now that all falls on you and becomes your responsibility.
However, when you know what to expect and how to handle it, then living alone doesn't have to be difficult. It can actually be a great experience!
Is Living With a Roommate a Better Option?
This answer will depend on your own personality and financial abilities.
Living with a roommate can be a great option if you want someone to split the rent and bills with.
For example, renting a two-bedroom apartment and splitting the rent with someone might be cheaper than renting a one-bedroom and paying the rent alone.
Of course, this will depend on the pricing, but most rent will work out this way.
You also must keep in mind that living with a roommate means making compromises and sharing a smaller space.
If you're comfortable sharing a kitchen, a living space, and living with someone else, then having a roommate could be a great idea!
Make Living on Your Own for the First Time a Breeze
When you know what to expect and how to prepare, you can have a wonderful experience.
Are you ready to make the move?
Schedule a tour of Afton Oaks view our different apartment floor plans available and make this your new home!
The post 10 Tips To Help You Live On Your Own For The First Time appeared first on Afton Oaks Blog.
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