Look forward to your move-in date! It’s critical to ask these 5 questions on your new apartment tour so that you know what to expect from your new home.
Valet Living — September 1, 2020 — It seems like you may have found the perfect apartment! While at face value, the apartment community you wish to call home appears to check all the boxes, you’re smart and savvy. It’s critical to ask a few important questions on your new apartment tour so that you know what to expect and you can look forward to your move-in date.
Whether you’re making a small move across the street into a bigger space, or trekking across the country to relocate to a bigger city such as apartments in Jacksonville, avoid frustration and disappointment by asking these 5 important questions when touring an apartment:
What move-in costs will there be?
You already know the price of your monthly rent, but the buck doesn’t stop there. Get your finances and expectations in order for a seamless and surprise-free lease signing by inquiring about additional costs and fees. Are you bringing a pet? Anticipate an additional pet deposit and monthly pet-fee. Additionally, an application fee, security deposit, and first and last month’s rent may apply so get a complete list of what you can expect to spend and make sure you earmark those funds.
How do maintenance requests work?
Toilet leaking at 11:39 pm on a Thursday? A/C broken? One of the perks of apartment home living is often access to a professional maintenance staff who specialize in maintaining the property and assisting residents with repairs. Ask about the systems in place for submitting requests – do you need to call the leasing office or submit an online form? Ask about turn-around time on repairs and schedule of availability.
What utilities are included (if any)?
Depending on the property, you may have some utilities bundled into your rent price. You may be on the hook for electricity and gas while water and trash collection are included in your rent. Ask about the utilities that are covered and what you’ll be responsible for. It’s also a good idea to ask if the community can give you an estimate for utilities for a similarly sized unit. That way, you can factor monthly costs into your budget ahead of time.
Can I make any updates to my apartment?
Unfortunately, this can be a bit tricky and will depend on the property. You will almost always have to approve any paint changes with your apartment community first and will often have to paint it back to an approved color (or pay a fee to have them do it) when you’re ready to move out. Comb through your lease agreement and ask specific questions if you’re curious about what updates you can make. In fact, if you’re concerned about taste level in an apartment home, you’ll find many luxury apartments are painted with modern neutral colors and feature hardwood floors, quartz countertops and more. Regardless, you’ll still have plenty of flexibility to express your personal style through décor and furnishings!
What amenities does the property offer to make my life easier?
Apartment communities are offering more and more amenities that make their residents’ lives convenient and easy. The best example of such an amenity that appeals to all residents is Valet trash! This convenient service is becoming an incredibly popular amenity provided at many apartment communities and is typically serviced by Valet Living, an industry leader in convenience amenities for apartment homes. You’ll be provided containers for trash and recycling and avoid the hassle of running to a common waste area on-site.
Additionally, you’ll see plenty of additional amenities on your tour so think about your lifestyle, or the kind you’re hoping to build, and be on the lookout for features that fit. Are you active or know you need to work on your fitness routine? Be sure to check out the gym and ask if Torch Fitness by Valet Living is available, offering custom fitness amenities like fitness classes at your community. Do you have a dog? Many apartments feature dog-parks and pet-wash stations for happy four-legged friends.
With these 5 questions to ask when touring a new apartment, you’ll find a home and community you love. You’ll be better prepped to consider your budget, have information to deal with any hiccups after move-in, and most of all, feel confident in your decision.
