Figure out your housing budget. The best rule of thumb is 30% of your net income (take home pay).
Consider the following when choosing a location: distance to work, school districts, safe neighborhood.
- Always ask friends and family if they know of any available places.
- Check Craig’s List or Padmapper.com for apartment locator.
- Take time to check each potential apartment. Do the faucets work? Do the windows lock? Is it clean and odor free? Does it come with appliances?
- You will complete a rental application and must have proof of employment and photo ID. You will also need to know your bank account information, previous addresses, and references.
- The landlord will do a credit check to verify employment, credit history, credit score and criminal background.
- The Lease Agreement is a legal contract which outlines the rules and expectations that the landlord and tenant promise to follow.
- Security deposit is required and will be used if you damage the unit or move leave while owing rent.
- Public Housing Programs are available and include Metropolitan Housing Authority and other low-income housing organizations.
