By Adrianna Noton


Check lists are not just for obsessive-compulsive people. They are an important tool to enable you to make the right decisions. When considering tips for renting an apartment, they also help you to break down what you find important so that you can find the right home.

Your lifestyle should be one of the foremost considerations when choosing a new home. If you relish a quiet life, a community with many young children may not be right for you. If you do have children, make sure there are play areas nearby and that the grounds are well-maintained so no dangerous objects are left lying about. Many areas cater to specific types of residents, including older people, people with families and college students.

Pet friendly homes are sometimes difficult to find because some owners are concerned about carpet soiling or other pet destruction. Deposits that cover pet damages are often required, and seldom returned. Make sure your potential home allows pets and has areas for walking dogs, or that there are dog parks nearby. Some dogs, even in pet friendly buildings, are not welcome. Landlords are concerned about lawsuits when breeds with aggressive reputations move in, even if the dog itself is even-tempered.

Money is always a concern when searching for a new place to live. If it is not within your price range, you may be putting yourself in a stressful situation that is not manageable. Consider all costs of renting, including utilities, cable, Internet access and any other items that will need to be paid on a monthly basis. Some owners include heat or electric in the cost of the rent.

Leases are legal documents that allow you to occupy a space for a predetermined period of time, at a preset cost. It will include the rules put in place by the owner, and what you will be responsible for. Some buildings allow repainting the walls, some do not. Read the lease carefully before signing it so you know exactly what to expect.

Cities are notorious for the lack of parking. If you own a car it is important to have the parking space included in the rent. Higher rents typically include garages or covered parking spaces. Assigned parking is preferable, so that you do not have to search for a spot, but can always leave your car in the same place.

Roommates may be an option for you when renting a new apartment, particularly if you live in an area with high rent. Make sure you know your potential roommates, including their habits, how reliable they are, and how long they plan to share the space. It can be very cost-effective to share a living space, but it is important to discuss utility bills, purchasing groceries, and any other costs or personal issues that you can think of.

Tips for renting an apartment from friends can be very helpful. But remember, what is important to someone else may not be high on your list of priorities. Your home should be a haven that is stress-free after work. Consider all of the Vancouver Apartments facts before making a final decision.




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