Maybe renting is new to you. Maybe your family situation has changed, such as you got married and are no longer living alone. Maybe you have added children to the mix. No matter, if you are looking for some ways to make sure that you are a great renter, we have got you covered. From maintenance, to what it is that you are responsible for, to how to make friends with your neighbors, we have thought about all the things that you need to think about if you want to be the best tenant possible.
When it comes to choosing the right apartment or multifamily unit, one thing to keep in mind is noise. Living wall to wall with others can be frustrating, but there are plenty of ways to avoid the annoyance of hearing your neighbors blender in the morning. When you tour the apartment, ask if there is anyone living in the unit next to you, and if so, pay attention to what time of day you are there, and if you can hear the neighbors. Also think about how you are going to lay out your apartment, and if it’s possible, put your largest pieces of furniture against shared walls. This will help absorb the sound and minimize what your neighbors can hear. If you have kids, consider which room you are going to put them in. If it’s at all possible, put them in a room that doesn’t share a wall.
One of the perks of living in an apartment is that you aren’t (normally) responsible for maintenance or lawn care. But you can be a great tenant by making sure that if a maintenance issue arises, to report it to the leasing office immediately. If you have a leaky faucet, or a broken garbage disposal, or if a toilet is running, make sure to let someone know as soon as the issue comes up. This will make it so much easier for the maintenance staff, and can prevent a small issue from becoming a much larger issue. If you are responsible for any upkeep of the maintenance, such a smoke detectors or air filters, make sure to keep a schedule of those things, and check them regularly.
Part of apartment living is the communal aspect of life. You live right next door to your neighbors, and you may see them more often than traditional neighbors. Take the opportunity to make some new friends, to develop relationships and to get to know someone you wouldn’t ordinarily get to know. Often times, multi family complexes will offer a monthly brunch, or other kind of get together so that you can get to know those who live around you. Take advantage of these events, and embrace the ability to make some new friends.
Apartment living is a great way of life! It means low commitment, low risk, easy living. And a lot of complexes have excellent amenities like pools, playgrounds, gyms, outdoor living spaces, and sometimes even pet amenities. This all makes for a great way of life. So rest easy when you are choosing your next apartment, and be prepared to be a great tenant!
