Hunting for an apartment can take time and effort. Depending on your location, you may have limited options, so selecting the best one that fits your needs and budget can be challenging.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term rental or something more permanent, the space should fit your lifestyle and give you comfort.
When apartment hunting, you can start by creating a checklist of the facilities and details you’re looking for.
List down the non-negotiables and the ones you can compromise. Here are nine features and amenities to consider to help you create your ultimate apartment checklist.
Contents
1. Stable Internet Access
Internet access is one of the top necessities in the modern world.
It’s intertwined with everyone’s daily lives: work, study, entertainment, and shopping essentials.
Therefore, a stable internet connection makes the top of this list.
Some residential buildings are equipped with ethernet wall plates. These receptacles allow you to connect your devices like computers, Wi-Fi routers, and smartphones to a wired local area network.
You can read more about this feature to know how it works and why it’s crucial for your apartment’s functionality.
2. Complete Appliances
Complete and functional appliances make apartment living more convenient.
Looking for a fully-equipped unit saves you from the hassles and additional expenses of purchasing new appliances.
Some apartment appliances must-haves are an oven and stovetop. These are non-negotiables for those who love home-cooked meals.
Units with a washer-dryer combo are also a great find, especially if you’re not fond of going to the nearest laundromat to do your laundry.
3. Ample Storage
Apartment hunters who are in a hurry often overlook storage spaces.
Having ample space to store your personal items is necessary to keep your new home organized, vibrant, and inviting.
Clutter makes an already limited space look even smaller. A unit with ample storage provides space to hide and organize your items.
Built-in storage makes home cleaning and organization easier. The interiors will also look airy and more spacious, creating a relaxing space.
4. Efficient HVAC System
An efficient HVAC system is a non-negotiable for apartments, especially if you live in a city with poor air quality or in a location with harsh weather conditions.
Remember, your safety and comfort should always be your priority.
5. Updated Kitchen
Modern appliances, freshly refurbished cabinets, and durable countertops usually make the deal. If you love cooking, this should be a non-negotiable.
One of the challenges apartment renters encounter is the limited possibility of revamping the kitchen to fit their preferences.
The quick solution is to find one that has everything you need and looks like your dream kitchen, so all you have to do is maintain it during your stay.
6. Outdoor Leisure Spaces
Apartment living can sometimes feel restrictive. Due to the limited living space, some may experience cabin fever due to staying indoors for too long. An area to breathe, outdoor views, green spaces, and even a chance to socialize with neighbors are essential to one’s overall wellness.
An apartment building with outdoor leisure spaces like a rooftop with a hangout area, gardens, and swimming pools make apartment living more enjoyable. If the unit’s balcony is too small, you can utilize these areas to relax.
7. On-site Parking
A safe and convenient parking space is crucial to apartment living. Street parking can be a hassle, especially when coming home from work.
The lack of security also puts your car at risk of theft and breaking.
On-site parking ensures you’ll always have a reserved spot. A parking space within an apartment complex also provides enough security, relieving your worries. Plus, you can park your car in the most convenient area, so you don’t have to walk too far.
8. Security
Residential buildings with maximum security measures may charge higher rent, but it’s worth it.
Staying in a space with 24/7 security staff guarding the vicinity helps you sleep better at night, knowing you’re safe.
Apartments with security cameras, sensors, alarms, and units with triple locks are perfect for individuals looking for a safe place to live.
These features reduce the risk of breaking, theft, and other crimes that may compromise your safety.
Although the rent may be more expensive, the comfort and security it provides are unmatched.
9. Pet-friendliness
If you have a pet or planning to adopt one, searching for a pet-friendly apartment is a must.
A pet-friendly space is harder to find since most property owners don’t allow pets, especially in smaller units, due to smell, noise, and potential damage.
In most cases, apartments only allow smaller pets like cats, guinea pigs, and toy-breed dogs.
So, make sure you ask about such rules before deciding on leasing a specific apartment.
Conclusion
Apartment hunting is both exciting and challenging. Considering these essential features helps narrow down your options and find the unit that suits your lifestyle and specific preferences.