Starting your apartment search can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re about to move into your first place after a dorm room or are simply moving to a new apartment, it’s a good idea to take these tips to heart. Let’s make your apartment hunt go as smoothly as possible.

First things first: before searching for an apartment, figure out your priorities. For some, a backyard is a necessity. For others, a third floor apartment with a deck is more their style. If you have pets, that’s something you’ll need to consider. Will you need a pool? Make a list the items most important to you before you even start to look for an apartment. It’ll save you time.

If you’re new in town, it can be hard to find the right place to live. Something to think about is checking testimonials and reviews left by others who live or have lived at the apartment complex you’re thinking about. Keep in mind that when it comes to apartments, just as it comes to retail, many people are going to be leaving angry reviews that may not be an accurate depiction of the place. Look for the most realistic reviews and take a look at Google Maps to check out the neighborhood.

We know. It’s genius. It’s also simple and easy to do. Make sure that water pressure is something you can live with for the duration of your lease. If not, address the issue with management before you move in, so they can tweak it.

Take measurements of your biggest pieces, like your bed, sofa, dresser, and entertainment center. If something isn’t going to fit, but you love the apartment, this allows you time to figure out what to do with the item. Make sure you can get the furniture into the apartment with ease now and save yourself frustration later.

When you’re moving into a place with a roommate or significant other, you’ll want to make sure you’re on the same page. That means you should discuss the area you’d like to live in and the budget you have going into it. It sounds simple, but when these basic things aren’t discussed, it inevitably leads to problems.

It’s always helpful to have prints of your pay stubs, contact information of your previous apartment manager or landlord (if applicable), and your credit history. This can expedite the rental application process. Landlords need to know that a potential tenant can make their rent on time and that late payments are not going to become a problem.

From apartments to townhomes, Hunziker has you covered when it comes to finding your home in Ames. If you’re currently looking for a rental or are thinking of making a change, take a look at our property listings today. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.