It depends. If you are living in an apartment in the same area where you want to continue living, you should probably start 60 to 90 days prior to the end of your current lease. If you're moving from another location, starting 30 to 60 days ahead of when you want to move is more than adequate.
Why start so early? Simple, so you can get the best possible apartment at the best price.
If you already live in an apartment in the area where you want to live, you need to give 30 days notice if you plan to move. In this situation, you'll need to make a decision and negotiate a new lease 30 days prior to the termination of your current lease. You'll also want to discuss renewal options with your current landlord more than 30 days before your lease expires.
Where do you start? If you live in an apartment and want to continue living in the same area, start by thinking about your current apartment property. Are you satisfied with the quality of the property? Does it provide the amenities you want? Is the location good or would you prefer to improve the location? Is the rent low, average or high? Do you like your floor plan? Do you like your neighbors and the property management? Does the property provide timely maintenance services?
After answering these questions, visit with the apartment leasing staff. Be direct. Tell them your lease will be expiring shortly and you are trying to evaluate your options. Ask for the best rental rate they can give if you renew your lease. Can they give you a free month's rent? Can they refund your deposit?
You will want to allow it least two to four weeks for the process of selecting a new apartment if you are moving. This will allow you time to compile information, review or budget for rent, find an online apartment search service, review the amenities you want, perform a preliminary search of properties, call properties to gather further information, visit the properties, select a property and negotiate a lease.
Think of searching for apartment like dumping thousands of apartment complexes into a funnel to narrow the selection to just one apartment. You'll only lease one apartment. However, there are thousands available. Location is the first critical decision when selecting an apartment. When you select the location, you will probably exclude about 90 to 95% of apartments in the metropolitan area. If you change your mind regarding location, you'll have to repeat the entire search process.
Consider the location of work, family, friends and leisure when selecting a location for your apartment. You also may need to think about shopping, schools and other factors. Are their apartments near your employer which are convenient and in an acceptable area? How much time will you spend commuting back and forth to work versus commuting for family, friends and leisure? When you consider both rent and commuting costs, which is the least expensive option.
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