There are plenty of things to consider when trying to find the perfect apartment, so we narrowed the list down to ten major points just for you!
1. Upfront Costs
Typically, rent is not the only financial concern one should have when moving into an apartment. There is usually a deposit due before move-in as well as the first month's rent (pro-rated or not). For questions on what your move-in costs would be at Seventeenth, stop by our leasing office.
2. Lease Term
A major consideration for signing a lease with an apartment complex is the lease term, or the length of the lease. Typically, leases are 12 months long, although some apartments offer different lease lengths such as 6 months or 18 months. Note: Shorter-term leases are usually subject to a short-term lease fee.
3. If You Need a Co-Signer
In order to qualify for an apartment, you may need a co-signer to meet the income/credit requirements. Typically, an apartment complex will look for 3 times the market rent in your income to be approved in the application process. If you do not meet this requirement, you may need a co-signer to be approved. Speak with your apartment's leasing staff to discuss whether you will need a co-signer.
4. Location, Location, Location
Location is always one of the biggest things to consider when choosing an apartment. Whether it is close to work, school, or other amenities/resources, location is always one of the biggest considerations to take into account. If you're a student looking for an apartment close to Wichita State, Seventeenth is a great option because we are just #17StepsToWSU!
5. Amenities
Many times, apartment complexes will offer several amenities or services to their residents. Amenities may include designated parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, pre-furnished units, in-unit washers/dryers, a fitness center, a business/printing center, or a clubhouse. Weighing the importance of each of these amenities is surely something to consider when choosing an apartment.
6. Roommates/Roommate Matching
If you are trying to save some money on rent by splitting the costs, you may want to consider having a roommate. Most apartments allow for roommates, helping to lighten the individual financial burden. If you have a friend (or friends) who you would like to live with, that is usually a great option! Don't have a roommate in mind? We can match you to someone with similar interests!
7. Pet Policy
If you have a furry friend, an apartment's pet policy is certainly a point you would want to consider when deciding if it is the right fit. Sometimes apartments will have a pet deposit and/or pet rent, both of which are important deciding factors for those who want their pet close by their side.
8. Things You Need
One thing you should always consider is what you would need to move in and be comfortable at an apartment complex. You should ask questions like whether the apartment is furnished, what comes included in the kitchen, and if there is free printing at the leasing office. These are all things you would need to consider so you know what you will need when you move in.
9. Things You Don't Need
You should also take into account what you won't need at an apartment complex. For instance, if an apartment is furnished in the living room but not in the bedrooms (just like Seventeenth's two and four bedroom units), you would not need to bring any living room furniture, but you would need to bring a bed and other bedroom furniture. Typically, apartments come with all the appliances you will need, so there is usually no need to bring those either.
10. Utilities
Finally, you should always ask if utilities are included in the rent or if the tenant is responsible for paying them. Sometimes utility costs will be included in the rent or in a separate fee with caps for electricity and water. Ask your apartment's leasing office for details on utility costs.
If you would like to ask us about any of the above considerations, give us a call at (316) 612-9948 or stop by our office at 3945 E 17th St N, where you'll be #17StepsToWSU.