You’re going to move to New York City and have to begin searching for an apartment. It can be baffling when you’re looking for that ideal place to call home. New York has five boroughs and hundreds of neighborhoods from which to choose.
Finding an affordable apartment in the right location takes time and patience. Here are some tips to follow to make your apartment search easier.
Learn About The Neighborhoods
The neighborhood you live in will affect your social life. When you find an apartment that you love, visit the district at different times of the day and night. Walk around nearby streets and get a feel for the area. You may like a neighborhood for the social life or because it’s near the subway, but if you prefer a quiet lifestyle, living close to a fire station or a street with a lot of bars may be a deterrent.
Be Financially Set
Have enough funds set aside for the first and last month’s rent and the security deposit, which can be the equivalent of one to one and a half month’s rent. If you’re sharing the apartment with friends, a lot of landlords will combine the price. Make sure to photocopy all relevant documents.
Timing Is Everything
Most apartments in New York aren’t listed until four or five weeks before the date of move-in. To find the ideal apartment, start looking a month before you plan your move. If the building is managed by a property management company, you can see similar apartments to determine if they’re what you want.
Be Flexible
You may not find all the amenities you want in an apartment, but if you’re willing to forego a couple of things on your list, you may be happier in the long run.
Use A Broker
Using the services of a Real Estate Broker can save you a lot of time and help you to find the apartment that suits your preferences and your budget. Contact a broker that services the neighborhood that interests you. Realtors have websites with descriptions and photos of available listings.
Save Money By Sharing Costs
A lot of people moving to New York City find it’s more affordable if they share costs with roommates. You may already have friends who are willing to share the costs, or you can use one of the new roommate apps to find compatible roommates.
It’s a good idea to fund roommates before your apartment search, so everyone’s on the same page. Once you find the apartment you want, all parties should sign an agreement, so everyone’s responsible for the lease.
What Pet-Friendly Means
If you have a dog or cat that is going to be living with you, make sure you understand what the requirements and possible restrictions are before you sign a lease. Here are some of the requirements of pet-friendly apartments:
- Maximum number of pets
- Maximum weight
- Deposit per pet
- Fee per pet
The maximum number of pets may apply to cats or dogs. Usually, the weight restriction doesn’t apply to cats. For dogs, the maximum weight could be anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds. If a deposit is required, it’s usually refundable when you move if no damage has been done. Some management companies may charge a fee per pet which is non-refundable.
By following these tips, your search for the ideal apartment in New York City will go more smoothly.