Apartment Hunting Tips

Finding the perfect apartment that fits your budget and needs can be a challenging task, especially if you’re not sure how to begin your apartment hunting process. Think of apartment hunting like speed dating, you either fall in love at first sight or decide to keep your options open in hopes of finding a better match.

Before visiting potential apartments, it’s important to know beforehand what you’re looking for. It’ll be difficult finding a home that checks every box on your wishlist, which is why it’s crucial to narrow the list down to your absolute necessities.

It’s important to keep in mind that not every apartment you’ll visit will be a perfect fit, and that’s completely normal. There are plenty of factors to consider that can affect your search, which is why we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips that’ll help guide you through the process.

Make a List of Non-negotiables

Every great plan starts with a little brainstorming beforehand, which is exactly what every apartment hunter needs to do before beginning their search.

There are many apartments out there that won’t suit your needs, so it would be a waste of time to check out apartments without your “must need” amenities. Making a list of what you need in an apartment will greatly scale down the search so that you can spend your time exploring more serious options.

Some common items found on most people’s lists include a minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms, flooring type, ample natural light, and storage space.

Set a Budget

Finding your dream apartment is possible, but may come with a hefty price tag.

When setting your budget, start by calculating all your monthly expenses, as it’ll serve as a guideline on how much you’re able to pay for rent. Be sure to include utilities, groceries, and any move-in costs when coming up with your analysis.

Everyone wants to find an apartment that checks all their boxes, though spending more than you can afford will quickly become disastrous. Some key questions to ask yourself when deciding on a budget are as follows:

●      “How much can I afford to spend on rent, utilities, and parking?”

●      “How much will the move cost me?”

●      “How much money do I have to put towards a security deposit?” 

Figuring out the answers to these questions will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford to pay in rent.

Don't Be Afraid of Asking Questions

Many apartments may seem too good to be true, and sometimes they are.

It’s important to ask the landlord, agent, or building manager about all the details of the apartment as well as the lease. Keep note of these answers as you can use them later on when comparing the strengths and weaknesses of potential apartments.

Start a New Chapter in Ottawa

If you’re new to apartment hunting, don't panic! 

It can be stressful planning a move, especially if it’s your first apartment. Our experts at Paramount properties are here to help you find your dream apartment. We strive to provide our clients with a clean and secure space, ensuring all fixtures and appliances are in perfect working order. 

With over 8,000 fantastic apartments to choose from, finding your new home will be a breeze. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns and we’ll be happy to help.