10 Tips for Effective Apartment Hunting

Apartment hunting in a new city is a tricky hustle. You have no idea of the best neighborhoods and the expected costs. People spend months searching and visiting apartments before finding something they like. Below are some tips to help you find apartments near York University that suit you best.

Ask people you know

The easiest way to find appropriate student housing York University is to let friends in the city know that you are searching. They will pass the word to their friends and co-workers and find you an apartment sooner rather than later. Through friends and an extended network, you have a high chance of getting an apartment in one of the best neighborhoods. Friends are unlikely to recommend housing that is not cool.

Check the phone reception before signing any agreement

When you go to check out the apartment, bring your cell phone with you to check the reception. A house with poor reception is a nightmare to live in. With bad reception you have to walk outside to receive and make calls. This will not only be an inconvenience but a lack of privacy as well. Walk through all the rooms with your phone to ensure that all rooms have good cell phone reception.

Electric and heating bill

The landlord will give you a quote for the heating or electric bills. This is usually just an average estimate. Before signing the agreement, talk to the other tenants and ask them about their average bills. The landlord’s quote may make it look cheap only to realize later that you can’t afford it.

Ensure there is enough space for your furniture

Before you start searching, measure all the furniture that you will bring along to the apartment. In your search for York University housing bring along the tape measure to make sure the furniture will fit. The furniture should fit through the door without causing strain or damage. It should also fit in the apartment without making the space look congested.

Check if your car insurance will be affected

Car insurance does change depending on where you live. Call your insurance company to check whether there will be any changes so that you can include that in your budget. Also, this would be a good time to secure tenant insurance.

Spend a day or two in the place you plan to rent

Many landlords will let you spend a night or two in the apartments to test the serenity of the environment.

Check inside the kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, under the sink and other hidden areas

Inspect the house thoroughly to ensure there is no damage or pests living in the apartment. Ask the landlord to fix all the damage before you sign the lease.

Calculate the cost of having a pet

Pet fees can either be flat rate or dependent on how many pets you have. Some apartments will not allow you to keep certain breeds of dogs such as German Shepherds, Chows, Pitt Bulls etc.

Consider moving during winter

York housing tends to cost less during winter. If you have to move during summer, sign a short term lease and plan to relocate when winter sets in.

Test the shower

When you are inspecting the apartment, test the shower and water taps to avoid disappointments.