There’s No Place Like Home – Even If It’s Rented: Tips For Finding the Perfect Home
Gabrielle Fanelli, Staff Writer
Every student is eventually faced with a decision after graduation — where am I going to live?
For some, living at home and saving money is an option; however, if you get a job that is hours away from your parent’s home, then you don’t have that luxury. Renting or leasing a place is definitely an option and a reasonable one at that. Websites that are keen on this issue, such as FreshHome.com, give a few things to consider.
Set a Budget
When you are first getting started in your career, money is tight. Make a budget and see what kind of housing you can afford. Ask questions to the landlord about HOA fees, monthly utilities, damage fees and the deposit.
Don’t have a budget? Create one with a free budget generator by clicking here
NGU broadcast media majorJordan Moore said “When I begin looking for an apartment price is definitely the most important.”
Find a safe area
After getting a job, search the area around and find a safe place to settle down. You can do so by reading local papers or use the online search engine called Family Watch Dog.
Know what you want
Things like job location, roommates, pets, income and personal preference all come into consideration when choosing a living space. Make a list of the things that are most important to you and stick to that list. If you are rooming with someone, talk to the person as well.
So, hypothetically, if a house and apartment were the same price to rent each month, which should you choose and why?
Psychology and art major Olivia Black said, “I would choose an apartment. Apartments turn out cheaper in the long run when you look at utilities. When renting a house you pay everything separate as well as landscaping and damages.”
Tour the location
Be sure to tour the house or apartment you are considering. Notice damages that are already there and be sure to point them out to landlord so you do not get penalized for those damages.
You can check out homes and apartments for rent as well as take virtual tours here.
