Apartment hunting help

Question

This is my first time in trying to find an apartment and I have no idea where to start. How do I find available apartments in my area (Seattle), how do I start signing leases, and where can I start? HELP!

Answer 1

Besides craigslist, you can call one of the services in the attached list.  Some of these services provide you with a list based on your specs... circle the ones you like and make appointments to see them.  If you get a good feeling about one, ask for the paperwork, get it started quick.  When you're out looking at apartments make sure you have personal information on you such as account numbers, work addresses, phone numbers, etc.  It's competitive... so you need to be prepared.

Good luck!

http://www.dexknows.com/category_Apartme...

Answer 2

You can try to locate an Apartment Finder, a lot of times they have them in convenience stores and outside of restaurants (they're free).  If you can't find one just go to www.apartmentfinder.com and enter in the information that applies to you.  Such as the area you are looking for, the price range that works for you, and also how many bedrooms/baths/etc.  It will bring up a list and it has proven to be a great starting place for me in the past.  You can usually find pictures of the properties or go directly to the apartment website.  If you think you are interested then go by and have a look.  At that point you can consider signing a lease.  I recomment signing a 6 month lease to start, that way you are not locked down in case they aren't as nice as you anticipated.  I wish you luck!  If you have anymore questions feel free to email me! :)

Answer 3

Very easy.  YOu have to go to the apartments in person.  YOu can't do it online.  Check it out and visit with the neighbors.  If they like it, you will too.  If they don't, they will warn you about crime or bugs or noise. Read the lease in a quiet place away from people .  Any words you don't understand, have the leasing agent explain.  As they explain, ask if they will write the words they just spoke into the lease so everyone knows.  If they refuse, check out the lease wording with friends or family-- it's a warning sign.  Take a video camera and tape the apartment when you move in and move out.  Otherwise they will keep your security deposit. Move in tomorrow. /