: On your first day, perform a walkthrough and take photos of any existing damage (scuffs, stains, or broken fixtures). Send these to your landlord immediately to protect your security deposit later.
: A common benchmark is to keep your gross monthly rent at or below 30% of your gross monthly income. For example, if you earn $60,000 annually, your maximum monthly rent should be approximately $1,500. The Apartment
: Visit the area at different times of day to gauge noise levels and safety. Check proximity to essential services like grocery stores and public transit. : On your first day, perform a walkthrough
When viewing an apartment, look beyond the surface to identify potential red flags. For example, if you earn $60,000 annually, your
: Be wary of weird smells, signs of pests (like droppings along baseboards), water damage on ceilings, or peeling paint.