How to Find an Apartment Before You Move

Couple strategizing their long-distance move on a couch

Moving can be incredibly stressful, especially if you’re moving to a new city. One of the most daunting tasks when it comes to relocation is finding a place to live. You want to make sure that you’re in the right location and have all the amenities you need without breaking your budget. The good news is, there are steps you can take to find an apartment before you move. Starting your search early means more time for research and comparison shopping, and you may even get some great deals in the process. Let’s look at some of the benefits of starting your search early and how to do it right.

The Benefits of Finding an Apartment Early

Starting your search early has several advantages. Firstly, you will have more time to compare different apartments and prices in different areas so that you can make a well-informed decision about where and when you want to move. Secondly, rental rates tend to be lower in off-peak seasons—usually from late summer through winter—so starting your search sooner rather than later could save you money on rent as well as other associated costs such as parking or storage fees. Finally, if there is something specific that you are looking for—like pet friendly buildings or luxury amenities—you may have better luck finding it if you start searching earlier rather than later.

Look at Online Listings

There are many online resources available today that make apartment hunting easy – including listings websites like Zillow or Apartments.com – so use them! Sites like these allow prospective tenants to narrow down their options by price range, location, number of bedrooms/bathrooms/amenities etc., making it easier for them to find exactly what they’re looking for quickly and easily. Additionally, many sites also offer virtual tours so that potential tenants can get a feel for the space without having to visit in person (which is especially helpful if they are moving from out of town).

Talk to a Real Estate Broker

Real estate brokers specialize in helping people find homes or apartments in their area so consulting with one could help narrow down your options even further. Brokers often have exclusive access to rentals not listed publicly so they may be able to find something off market that meets all of your criteria perfectly!

Avoid Scams

Unfortunately scammers often target unsuspecting renters looking for apartments online; however there are things that tenants can do minimize their chances of being taken advantage of – such as working with reputable companies like Zillow or Apartments.com instead of individual landlords/owners (who may not be legitimate).

Negotiate a Longer Lease

Many landlords offer discounts on longer leases so it pays (literally!)to negotiate this before signing any rental agreement – longer leases mean lower monthly payments which can add up over time!

Consider Smaller Buildings

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to apartments; smaller buildings usually come with fewer rules/restrictions which can make living there more enjoyable overall!

Social Media Is Your Friend

Utilize social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram when searching for an apartment – not only will these sites give potential renters access to a larger pool of available spaces but they also provide a way for renters connect directly with people who live/have lived in certain neighborhoods which may give them insight into what day-to-day life is really like living there (which is invaluable information!).

Relax! You’ll find a spot before you know it.

Moving into a new city can be overwhelming but finding an apartment doesn’t have to be stressful! By taking advantage of online listings websites and consulting with real estate brokers from the get go, prospective tenants will increase their chances of finding just what they’re looking for quickly and easily – all while saving money on rent along the way! With careful planning and research anyone can find their perfect home before ever setting foot in it– no matter where they’re moving from!

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