• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Online Apartment Search

There are a lot of great resources out there if you’re running an apartment search online. I’ll list several websites that you can find apartments on and give you a brief overview of how to use them. Zillow is a good way to see several apartment listings at a glance. There are plenty of pictures for you to look through that can determine if the apartment is for you. Simply type the city and state you want to find an apartment in and click the search icon. You can also narrow down your search by price, how many rooms there are, square footage, year built, stories, amenities, and whether they allow pets. You can even type “furnished” into the keywords search to find already-furnished apartments. With the Zestimate tool, you can compare apartments too!

Trulia is just as user-friendly as Zillow is in terms of getting to see what apartment listings are available. A helpful feature of Trulia is that the site partners with crime-mapping tools (Spot Crime and others) to provide you with a “Safety and Crime” map. Trulia users review each area according to specific criteria as well, making it considerably more comprehensive than Zillow.

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

• The words “For Rent,” “Apartments for sale,” or “Apartments for rent,” usually in orange or red and black
• The full address and zip code of the apartment(s) for rent
• Positive qualities of the rental property (renovations, laundry facilities, amenities, etc)
• Rent amount
• Application requirements
• Contact information (Name, phone number, and/or email address of the person putting the apartment up for rent)

Online Apartment Search

There are a lot of great resources out there if you’re running an apartment search online. I’ll list several websites that you can find apartments on and give you a brief overview of how to use them. Zillow is a good way to see several apartment listings at a glance. There are plenty of pictures for you to look through that can determine if the apartment is for you. Simply type the city and state you want to find an apartment in and click the search icon. You can also narrow down your search by price, how many rooms there are, square footage, year built, stories, amenities, and whether they allow pets. You can even type “furnished” into the keywords search to find already-furnished apartments. With the Zestimate tool, you can compare apartments too!

Trulia is just as user-friendly as Zillow is in terms of getting to see what apartment listings are available. A helpful feature of Trulia is that the site partners with crime-mapping tools (Spot Crime and others) to provide you with a “Safety and Crime” map. Trulia users review each area according to specific criteria as well, making it considerably more comprehensive than Zillow.

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section]

Whether you live in California, New York, or my home state of Illinois, you’ve inevitably seen apartment rental signs near you. Most apartment rental signs feature these key components:

• The words “For Rent,” “Apartments for sale,” or “Apartments for rent,” usually in orange or red and black
• The full address and zip code of the apartment(s) for rent
• Positive qualities of the rental property (renovations, laundry facilities, amenities, etc)
• Rent amount
• Application requirements
• Contact information (Name, phone number, and/or email address of the person putting the apartment up for rent)

Online Apartment Search

There are a lot of great resources out there if you’re running an apartment search online. I’ll list several websites that you can find apartments on and give you a brief overview of how to use them. Zillow is a good way to see several apartment listings at a glance. There are plenty of pictures for you to look through that can determine if the apartment is for you. Simply type the city and state you want to find an apartment in and click the search icon. You can also narrow down your search by price, how many rooms there are, square footage, year built, stories, amenities, and whether they allow pets. You can even type “furnished” into the keywords search to find already-furnished apartments. With the Zestimate tool, you can compare apartments too!

Trulia is just as user-friendly as Zillow is in terms of getting to see what apartment listings are available. A helpful feature of Trulia is that the site partners with crime-mapping tools (Spot Crime and others) to provide you with a “Safety and Crime” map. Trulia users review each area according to specific criteria as well, making it considerably more comprehensive than Zillow.

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Apartment Rental Signs

Whether you live in California, New York, or my home state of Illinois, you’ve inevitably seen apartment rental signs near you. Most apartment rental signs feature these key components:

• The words “For Rent,” “Apartments for sale,” or “Apartments for rent,” usually in orange or red and black
• The full address and zip code of the apartment(s) for rent
• Positive qualities of the rental property (renovations, laundry facilities, amenities, etc)
• Rent amount
• Application requirements
• Contact information (Name, phone number, and/or email address of the person putting the apartment up for rent)

Online Apartment Search

There are a lot of great resources out there if you’re running an apartment search online. I’ll list several websites that you can find apartments on and give you a brief overview of how to use them. Zillow is a good way to see several apartment listings at a glance. There are plenty of pictures for you to look through that can determine if the apartment is for you. Simply type the city and state you want to find an apartment in and click the search icon. You can also narrow down your search by price, how many rooms there are, square footage, year built, stories, amenities, and whether they allow pets. You can even type “furnished” into the keywords search to find already-furnished apartments. With the Zestimate tool, you can compare apartments too!

Trulia is just as user-friendly as Zillow is in terms of getting to see what apartment listings are available. A helpful feature of Trulia is that the site partners with crime-mapping tools (Spot Crime and others) to provide you with a “Safety and Crime” map. Trulia users review each area according to specific criteria as well, making it considerably more comprehensive than Zillow.

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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Ways to Search for an Apartment

For the most comprehensive list of apartments possible, you can use all of the following methods to search for an apartment. Of course, you are welcome to choose any method you wish in order to hunt for an apartment. Perhaps you’re more technologically savvy and would like to look exclusively on the internet. Or maybe you’d rather ask your friends and family first before you hunt for an apartment on your own. Feel free to take this section out of order or forgo part of this section, if you’d like.

Apartment Rental Signs

Whether you live in California, New York, or my home state of Illinois, you’ve inevitably seen apartment rental signs near you. Most apartment rental signs feature these key components:

• The words “For Rent,” “Apartments for sale,” or “Apartments for rent,” usually in orange or red and black
• The full address and zip code of the apartment(s) for rent
• Positive qualities of the rental property (renovations, laundry facilities, amenities, etc)
• Rent amount
• Application requirements
• Contact information (Name, phone number, and/or email address of the person putting the apartment up for rent)

Online Apartment Search

There are a lot of great resources out there if you’re running an apartment search online. I’ll list several websites that you can find apartments on and give you a brief overview of how to use them. Zillow is a good way to see several apartment listings at a glance. There are plenty of pictures for you to look through that can determine if the apartment is for you. Simply type the city and state you want to find an apartment in and click the search icon. You can also narrow down your search by price, how many rooms there are, square footage, year built, stories, amenities, and whether they allow pets. You can even type “furnished” into the keywords search to find already-furnished apartments. With the Zestimate tool, you can compare apartments too!

Trulia is just as user-friendly as Zillow is in terms of getting to see what apartment listings are available. A helpful feature of Trulia is that the site partners with crime-mapping tools (Spot Crime and others) to provide you with a “Safety and Crime” map. Trulia users review each area according to specific criteria as well, making it considerably more comprehensive than Zillow.

Realtor.com lists several different apartments by category on their home page (ie: “Apartments with pools,” “Pet-friendly apartments”). Type the city and state you’re looking for into the search bar and filter your search to your specifications. Like Zillow, Realtor.com lists the amenities and specifications of each apartment (beds, baths, square footage, etc).

Craigslist is essentially an online newspaper ad. From the link I’ve provided, find your state and click on the city or locality closest to where you’d like to live. You’ll be directed to a screen with several options, and you’ll find “Apts/Housing” under the Housing category. Click it and you’ll see several available apartments, most of them with photos so you can get a better idea of what the apartment looks like. Note: the information on Craigslist isn’t as comprehensive as on other sites, and since anyone can post on Craigslist, exercise caution when searching for apartments. If the listing isn’t professional (no photos/address/unprofessional-sounding listing), chances are it’s not legitimate. However, Craigslist has been around for a long time, and it is not dedicated to apartment hunting, so the site does not have many of the features of the apartment hunting website listed above.

Newspaper Apartment Listings

Like apartment rental signs, newspaper apartment listings generally tend to include the following useful information:

• Rental amount
• Number of bedrooms
• Number of bathrooms
• Name and contact information (phone number, email, etc) for the person listing the property
• Whether or not pets are allowed
• What town/community the apartment is located in (including address)
• Some amenities

Sometimes apartment listings will also include:

• Whether heat and hot water are included
• The required amount for the security deposit
• Available move-in date

You can search using a physical newspaper, which is slowly disappearing, or you can go to the newspaper website. The point is that landlords still advertise in local newspapers.

Apartment Referrals From Family and Friends

Sometimes you’ll get the best referrals from family and friends, especially if they already have an apartment in the community where you’re interested in living. Getting a referral from someone you know for both the renter and landlord adds an element of trust because you know a mutual family member or friend. Also, many landlords with small apartments may not advertise online and will use more traditional methods, such as putting a sign on the property or telling family and friends of the apartment’s availability.

If your friend or family member has answered the above questions and you’re still interested, you can ask whether they’d be willing to invite you over to their apartment so you can see what it’s like. Getting referrals is the best way to find an apartment, as long as you know who to ask.

How to Research Your Apartment

As in many other areas of life, it really helps to do your research. First, we’ll cover why you need to do your research. Next, we’ll highlight the importance of proximity to work or school, possible amenities that can make your future home more enjoyable, and how to calculate your cost of living in each apartment.

Why You Need to Do Your Research

A sad reality of adulting is that there’s always someone out there who wants to take your money. If you do diligent research, you’ll minimize your chances of being scammed by imposters while you hunt for an apartment. Here are a few ways you can determine whether your dream apartment is truly legitimate:

If you pay in cash, get a receipt. If you are renting in a larger apartment complex operated by a professional management company, they may not take cash. Credit and debit card transitions are easier to audit for apartment owners. However, many landlords of smaller apartments or houses may take cash, in which case just get a written receipt showing you paid the rent.

Pictures are a good starting point, but you need to see the apartment. If you encounter a landlord who isn’t willing to show you the property before you sign a lease or make your first monthly payment, just walk away. This is not a legitimate practice, and something is wrong.

Sign a written lease. Only a written lease is legally binding, so should a dispute arise, you’ll be grateful to have the agreement on paper. Ensure that the landlord signs the lease as well and that you have a copy of the contract. (If you e-sign the rental agreement through an apartment listing service like Rentberry, you’ll always have a digital copy at your fingertips.) However, many smaller units (2–4 units) and houses are owned by individuals who have different levels of expertise. You should get your contract terms in a written lease, and you should read the lease and ask questions. You may not understand all the lease terms, and don’t be surprised if the landlord doesn’t either. Plus, some cities, such as Chicago, have housing regulations that the landlord may or may not follow. Lease terms are another subject, so, I will just say get it in writing and leave it at that for now.

Make sure the lease identifies the owner and that you know who they are. Ask for homeownership documents to prove that you’re speaking to someone with authority to rent the property. This is more of an issue with renting single-family homes and smaller 2-4-unit buildings. This is less of an issue with larger apartment complexes. You should know if the person renting you the apartment owns the building or is authorized to rent it. If they hesitate, don’t sign on the dotted line.

Avoid sub-leasing unless you absolutely need to do it. It’s very difficult to determine whether the original tenant has the right to sub-lease the property. Both you and the original tenant can be evicted if the landlord finds out that the property was being sub-leased without permission. The safest way to go about sub-leasing is to talk with the original tenant and landlord to see if you can have your name added to the original lease.

Meet the landlord in person, too. Regardless of the method that you choose to research the apartment, you need to see the physical property and the landlord in person. If they don’t want to interact with you in person, that’s another red flag.

Keep a sharp eye out for the middleman scam. If someone tells you that they handle property for the real owners and insists on collecting payment from you, don’t believe them. The person who rented you the apartment and countersigned the lease should direct you to where and how to make your monthly payment. These are some of the most common rental scams out there, so run away while you can.

Technology is your friend. Before you rent a place, Google the landlord’s contact information. If you see a photo that seems too good to be true, run a reverse image search on Google or TinEye.

Read the Lease. If you don’t, you could end up on the hook for a lot more than you bargained for. Always read your rental agreement thoroughly before you sign. Most likely, the lease will have some provisions you do not understand, so ask questions.

Follow other tips to avoid rental scams. Rentberry.com has an entire list of ways to avoid scams. Read the article if you want more advice or resources on how to deal with rental scams.

Proximity to Work or School

Before you choose an apartment, evaluate how close it is to your workplace, college, or training school. If your apartment is too far away, the cost of gas is going to begin cutting into your budget. (More on that later.) One of the best ways to avoid wear and tear on your vehicle is to live close to your school or workplace. You’ll cut down on gas and maintenance costs as well. If you find that you have no choice but to live a considerable distance from your workplace or school, be sure to factor that in as you go over your budget.

What Amenities are You Looking For?

There are several types of amenities that are offered to renters. Here are some examples, sorted by category:

Recreational

• Swimming pools
• Barbeque areas
• Firepits
• Fitness Centers
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop Lounges
• Media Rooms
• Community Gardens

Pet

• Pet-friendly units
• Pet washing stations
• Dog parks

Parking/Transportation

• Secured Garage
• Carport/covered parking
• EV (Electric Vehicle) charging stations
• Guest parking

Other Community Amenities

• Laundry facilities
• Laundry services
• Gated community
• Extra storage space
• Online rent payments
• Online maintenance requests
• Community events/classes

In-Unit Amenities

• In-unit laundry
• Air conditioning
• Storage space/large closets
• Dishwasher
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-speed internet
• Views
• Fireplace
• Hardwood floors

Calculate Your Cost of Living

Budgeting is an important step to adulting, and as a young adult starting out, you’ll need to ensure you can afford to live at your apartment. Your cost of living shouldn’t be more than the cost of gas, utilities, rent, tuition, groceries, loans for credit cards, insurance, and vehicle loans. It may sound difficult to calculate your cost of living, but Smart Asset has a very handy cost of living calculator. It compares whether the prospective apartment has a lower or higher cost of living. If you’d like something more detailed, try Numbeo’s Cost of Living estimator. It features information from several cities and weighs many factors, including:

• Members of the household
• How frequently you eat from restaurants and what kind you choose
• How often you go out/drink coffee in a cafe
• Transportation types
• How frequently you go on vacations/trips
• How frequently you buy clothing/shoes
• Cost of rent

Budgeting is an important part of being on your own, so do everything you can to make sure your budget is solid. There are plenty of budgeting tips you can try to stretch your dollar farther, including setting long-term financial goals and saving money for big expenses, but the bottom line is that you’ve got to be detailed, stay consistent, and monitor your finances.

Stewart Publishing is Here to Help

I created Stewart Publishing because I want to help teens and young adults like you find their independence. Even if you feel like the odds are stacked against you, you can become a successful adult. In my book, “How to Leave Your Parent’s Home and Live on Your Own,” I talk in more detail about how to find an apartment, open a bank account, and more. My goal for you is that you don’t just survive but that you thrive. Contact me today if you have any questions or would like a copy of my book.

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