Sometimes it happens in a flash. One minute you are happy in the daily grind, and the next moment you find yourself seriously considering a move out of state. On the other hand, maybe your decision to relocate to fresh new surroundings is something you’ve been dreaming about for years.
Either way, trying to rent an apartment out of state can be a little intimidating...
The beginning of an adventure is always a little scary. Embarking into the unknown promises loads of new experiences but sometimes it can feel like you are jumping without a parachute, especially when you are looking for a place to live.
Let’s take a look at some solid relocation hacks that will put you at the top of the game and get you safely into the perfect apartment out of state.
Where Do You Want To Live?
With advances in technology, an expanding job market, and more work-from-home options opening up every day, the average American has a lot more options when it comes to choosing where they want to live.
Finding the perfect town, the perfect state, the perfect neighborhood to live in doesn’t have to be the challenge it once was.
The Wish List, What Do You Want In An Apartment?
Start your search with a deep breath, a pencil pr pen and a some paper. Take a few minutes to jot down the things that come to mind when you think of the perfect place to live.
What does your dream neighborhood look like? Is access to shopping, health clubs, or a vibrant after-hours scene important to you? Be realistic, but if you want that “perfect little cafe” within walking distance, write it down.
Consider the amenities that are important to you. Things like a pool, a view, a deck, or a yard. Don’t forget pets, if you have pets make sure you find a rental that works. Are you looking for a furnished apartment, what kind of appliances do you need?
Once you have your list together, take a few moments and prioritize your list. Take a look at the must-haves. Do you need a laundry on-site, or will having one within walking distance work for you?
Research, Research, And Then, Research Some More.
Maybe this seems like a lot of work, but take a moment and think. The decision of where you live is one of the most important decisions any of us make. It’s a big one, after all, it’s going to be your new base of operations, your creative lab, your place of rest, and relaxation.
When it comes to finding the perfect rental apartment out of state you can’t cut corners on this step. The more research you do on your new home town, the more likely you are to find exactly what you want.
Why Are You Relocating?
The first step in your research process should be to ask yourself why it is that you are considering a move out of state. Once you’ve identified the motivation It’s pretty easy to start seeing the research questions you should be asking.
Moving for school?
Whether you are seeking specialized technical training or looking to expand your university education, These days, lots of people go out of state to find the right educational opportunities. Moving for school presents some special needs you’ll want to be sure to address.
Commute
How far do you have to go from your prospective apartment to get to class? Here’s a hint, closer is better. The life of a student is a busy one. One with lots of late nights and early wakeups. The last thing you want to do is complicate your schedule with a long commute.
Access
K.I.S. The key here is to Keep It Simple. As a student, access to shopping, transportation, and other conveniences can be crucial. You’ll want to make sure your new apartment is close to things like food and entertainment so you don’t have to go too far.
Employment Availability
Another important consideration is access to employment. As a student, many of us still have to find work to supplement our living expenses. Access to work opportunities should play an important role in your search for the perfect apartment.
Moving for work?
Blam, there it is, right in your lap. You got the job offer you can’t refuse. All of your dreams are coming true. It’s time to start taking a close look at the best neighborhood and town to live in. Just like moving for school, your first consideration should probably be the location.
Commute
How early do you want to get up in the morning? While some people seem to bounce right out of bed ready for anything, most of us like to take things a little slower. Be sure to consider commute time when looking for the perfect apartment so you can get where you need to be with a smile on your face.
Work-Life Balance
Make sure to consider work-life balance when it comes to your new location. Does your new apartment provide easy access to things like parks and recreational facilities, you know the stuff that makes life fun?
Access
Let’s talk about access again. When thinking about the ideal apartment, be sure to consider the access to health services and day-to-day needs like grocery shopping, restaurants, etc.
Time For Some Financial Planning
Now that you have your list of must-haves and research questions, it’s time to address the nuts and bolts of the process. A crucial element in any out-of-state apartment search is cost. You don’t want to get stuck in a place you can’t afford.
Start with a budget. This budget should be specific to your relocation. Don’t forget to include considerations for moving expenses. Some new apartments may have hidden fees, make sure you are well aware of anything that might pop up.
Next, think about how much you want to spend each month and what’s included in the price. Many rentals include things like cable, internet, gas, and water, but some apartments will require you to set up new utility services in your name.
One piece of advice here, my mother told me this when I was a kid, and I think it still resonates. When it comes to rent, think about what you can afford and then cut it by 25% and let that be your target. Set yourself up from the rip and make it easier to get more with your dollars.
Do The Detective Work
Now that you have a pretty good picture of what you are looking for, it’s time to dive in. There are tons of free resources available to help you in your search. The internet has definitely made this step easier.
It’s pretty easy to research towns, neighborhoods, apartments, and even landlords. A great place to start your search is social media. I never realized what a helpful tool this can be when searching for a new apartment until very recently.
These days, most communities have social media pages. Places where neighbors can communicate and share important information. This is a great resource for acquainting prospective tenants with the culture of the area.
You may find many apartment complexes and landlords that have review pages on-line. Take advantage, and dig into the information available online.
If you’ve gone through all the steps and you’re still not sure about your next rental think about a short-term rental option. A short-term rental can give you the perfect way to get to know the area in person before making the big move.
When it comes to finding the perfect apartment out of state, all it takes is a little extra planning and care to make sure your next apartment fits you perfectly.
