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Looking at apartments? Your perfect match is out there, and it will be an easy find if you know what you are looking for. The right apartment for you will depend on a variety of factors, from the rental cost to utility expenses, and even the amount of time and money it takes to get to your classes. Understanding all of the costs associated with renting a particular unit can help you decide exactly what you need in order to find the perfect place to live while you focus on your studies. Four Things to Consider When Viewing Apartments 1. How much can you afford to pay? What is your income, and how will you pay your rent? Knowing where the money for rent will come from and how much you will have is essential. Will you take on a job, pay for rent out of your student loan funds, or borrow from your parents? When you know how much money you have to work with, you can get a reasonable idea of what you will be able to spend on an apartment. Total your income from all sources, and use about a third of it for rent. You will need the rest for utilities, food, and other living expenses. Figuring out what you can afford also helps you decide if you can truly handle an apartment on your own, or if you need a roommate or two to help foot the bill. 2. What locations work best for you? If you don't have a car, your ideal apartment is going to be within a comfortable walk or bike ride to campus as well as your job if you have one. Don't forget to check for nearby, essential stores and services, too. How far will you need to go to get to the grocery store, coffee shop, or gym? Choosing a geographic location can help narrow your search and allow you to find a place that suits your lifestyle and needs. 3. What's in a year? In college towns, a year may be defined as a full 365 days, a school year, or somewhere in between. When you sign a lease, you should be sure that you fully understand how long you'll be renting your new place. You may end up paying for months you don't use, however, too short of a lease can potentially result in a mid-semester move. 4. Safety Matters If you have been living on campus, you are likely comfortable with the insulated and safe environment. Leaving this area behind gives you more options, but it also means that you will need to consider security. Make sure the apartment you choose is set up for safety with well-lit entrances and secure locks. You should also make sure that you will feel comfortable in the neighborhood at nighttime. Driving by a few times at odd hours can give you a sense of how active the area is in the evening. Consider all of your options and each of the factors above when looking at apartments will help you find the perfect one for you. Feeling comfortable at home is about more than just loving the interior of your place, and you will be happier when you are not worried about the rent, other costs, or your personal safety. To learn more about their options for apartments, State College, PA residents should visit http://www.rentpmi.com/PMIStudent/Pages/StudentHousing.aspx.
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