When To Start Looking for Your Hot Pad

Believe it or not, a strategy is needed in order to find a new place. The key to being successful on your hunt for a new hotpad is to know when to start looking. Timing is everything, especially when shopping in the real estate market.

Generally speaking: it is best to start your search 30-45 days (rule of thumb if your looking for place in the city) before you would like to move. Some sources recommend apartment shopping 45-60 days before you would like to settle in since usually landlords know if their tenants are renewing their lease at 60 days.

However, it differs based on your individual situation: Those with lower credit scores or incomes may have more difficulties finding the place they would like to live. Therefore, it is best to inquire early and at a wide range of places to ensure that you have found a place by the time your lease is up.

Do prep work year round: Even before you begin to take apartment hunting seriously it is best to narrow down your search. Get an idea of what neighborhoods fall in your price range and what places have other location attributes that interest you like attractions, metro accessibility, etc. When you finally start to look make sure you have all the proper paperwork and a pen with you since there is a chance you may have to sign on the spot.

Common "Renters" Sense:

• Summertime- usually a lot of places are on the market but in high demand (they disappear fast)
• Most leases begin on the 1st of the month
• When people like you, then they'll like to help you, so be nice to the brokers and landlords