How To Rent An Apartment (After Selling Your House)

Figuring out how to rent or move into an apartment is easy for for some people. But if you have lived in a house for years, and have grown accustomed to living in the comforts of a place you own, then you might need to make some major adjustments.

You might feel a little bit disappointed for various reasons. Perhaps the apartment that you’re moving into is too small. Perhaps the location is not as desirable compared to your old place. Maybe you find that some of the amenities in your new apartment are somehow lacking in your standards. (Hint: check out our luxury apartments to solve all 3 of these issues.)

With all the expenses that you need to cover suddenly hitting you in the face by surprise, you don't want these adjustments to be a big burden. Here are tips to help you ease in into your new place in no time.

Understanding The Responsibilities

What ever reason you have why you’re moving from a house to an apartment, is up to you. But if you are used to living with your family who’s always been there to attend to your needs, then settling into an apartment may become overwhelming in a few ways.

In many ways apartment living is simpler. Think about fewer bills. But keep in mind that you likely have to continue paying for utilities every month. That's in addition to your monthly rent. It's a good idea to set your expectations early on.

If you’re planning to move in with a friend or a roommate, then it would be best to clear up responsibilities. One thing to be clear on with your housemates is the delegation of tasks. Talk about who’s going to do what, where, when, and how. If you can settle on or or work out your disagreements before they begin to arise you'll all be happier in the long run.

Try To Feel The Place

Before moving into the apartment, try to get a feel for the entire space. Pictures of advertised apartments over the internet are, more often than not, photoshopped, so don’t completely base everything from the picture that caught your interest.

If you must, make a number of trips to the apartment before making your big decision. If you can, ask the landlord for permission to go inside the apartment to actually see and get a feel for everything on the inside. 

It's important for you to know how an apartment makes you feel. Imagine yourself living in that apartment. Can you picture yourself living there? Does it feel right for you?

If you can, try to do some research about the apartment. Ask around to other tenants or workers to see if they can give you an idea of what it’s like living there. The more knowledgeable you are with your apartment choice, the more comfortable and confident you will be in the months down the road with your decision.

Consider The Location

Consider your new apartment proximity to your other obligations. Are children living with you? If so, how far to their school school? Do you have a job you commute to? Then how does this location impact your daily travel?

Moving out of home ownership into a building that someone else is responsible for can be quite liberating. It can also be a great learning experience as well. With these tips, you can be confident to make the great leap forward.