Whether you're moving out of your parents' house or leaving your dorm room days behind, renting your first apartment is a rite of passage and an exciting period in your life. Of course, learning how to rent an apartment comes with new obligations and tasks, as well as the flexibility to decide and choose the ideal location.
Even the most determined and well-prepared first-time apartment tenant can become overwhelmed by the procedure. Apartment hunting, applications, fees, budgeting, packing, and all the other difficulties of moving come with their own set of problems, but it's all worth it in the end. To make the transition as easy as possible, here is a first-time apartments renter checklist that includes everything you need to know about how to rent a 2 bedroom accommodation in Winnipeg.
1. Set your budget
A first-time apartment renter is likely to underestimate the amount they can afford to rent and other essentials. The Department of Housing and Urban Development recommends that you don't spend more than 30% of your gross monthly income. In expensive areas this is not always possible. However, you should try to keep your housing costs to 30% or less. You can offset your living expenses by sharing a room with someone you like or starting an income-generating side business.
2. Choose Your Neighborhood
It can be daunting to narrow down your ideal neighborhood for your first apartment rental. Consider the following to narrow down your options:
- How close can I get to work?
- Which do you prefer: public transport, driving, or walking?
- Do I want quiet or to be in the middle?
- Is it more expensive to live in my dream area than the surrounding areas?
- What distance do you want to be from attractions, restaurants, or museums?
It is easier to find the right location for you if you narrow your choices