Renting your first apartment is exciting, but there are many things to remember. Keep these tips in mind as you find your new home!
Getting ready to move into your first apartment is exciting, whether renting on your own or with a roommate. It can also be a little intimidating if you aren’t sure exactly what you’re doing. Fortunately, you can find lots of information to help you prepare for this experience. Here are some of our best tips for renting your first apartment.
Plan Your Budget Carefully
Renting can be more expensive than you might think, as rent is one of many expenses you need to manage. Some of the other costs you might not think about include:
- Furniture and décor for your new apartment
- Security deposit (paid once at the start of your lease)
- Monthly utilities, including essentials like Internet
Additionally, you might find that you spend more eating out and shopping when you move to a great area like St. Mary’s County! Make sure that you have wiggle room in your budget to adapt over time and have some extra funds saved for the expenses related to moving into your apartment.
Think About Questions Ahead of Time
Since you’ll be getting used to the renting process, you want to make sure you think about your questions ahead of time. What are some of the questions that you might want to ask the property manager?
- Are there amenities, like an on-site fitness center? What are the hours and rules of use?
- Can you access emergency maintenance if you need it?
- Are there pet policies? If you want to add a pet in the future, what do you need to do?
- What stores are nearby?
- Are there printers, copiers, etc. that are available for residents to use?
Any experienced apartment complex will be happy to answer any of your questions.
Get Renter’s Insurance
Renter’s insurance is similar to homeowner’s insurance, except it protects your belongings if something happens to them while you’re renting. For example, if theft occurs or your apartment is flooded, your policy can cover the cost of replacing your belongings. While you might think this renting requirement is unnecessary, policies are extremely affordable and provide excellent protection.
Read Your Lease
When renting your first apartment, you should take extra time to read through your lease agreement carefully. This document is binding and outlines a broad range of things, including your responsibilities and the apartment complex’s responsibilities to you. If you have any questions about the lease, don’t hesitate to ask! Once you sign it, make sure that you retain a copy for reference.
The Apartments of Wildewood have a friendly community that’s waiting to welcome you!
At The Apartments of Wildewood, located in beautiful St. Mary’s Maryland, we offer homes with access to pools, an on-site gym, and maintenance whenever you need it – and have access to all the information you need to affordably rent an apartment in St. Mary’s. To set up an appointment to check out an apartment or townhouse rental from The Apartments of Wildewood, call us at 301.737.0737 or visit the website at www.apartmentsofwildewood.com.