Buying your own home is a great and expensive idea. If you are not looking to go down that costly road, renting one is probably the best solution for you.

However, hunting for a new apartment can be daunting. Before signing a lease for a rental property, here is a checklist of important factors to keep in mind when hunting for a new residence:

Location

Before you begin your hunt, it’s important to determine the neighborhood you want to live in. Some areas are busier and noisier than others. If you prefer a live neighborhood, it’s best to limit your apartment hunt to those areas.

Also, your future apartment should be close to a grocery store, train station, workplace, etc. It won’t matter if the rental property checks all other boxes but an hour's drive away from your workplace. Easy and quick commute to your workplace is just as important as spaciousness and affordable rental price.

Budget

Another important thing to consider before your apartment search is budget. It’s important to figure out and inform your agent how much you are willing to pay for an apartment. Doing this before your hunt makes it easier to get a good deal for your money.

To calculate the real rental price of a prospective home, you should include monthly rent, pet and parking fees, security deposit, utility costs, renter’s insurance, etc. Doing this helps you determine if you can afford the new unit or consider other options.

Space

There’s more to an apartment than its visual appeal. Spaciousness is another hallmark feature every potential renter should consider before signing a lease agreement.

When it comes to apartments for rent in SoMa, the size of the unit matters. Regardless of your housing choice - one or two bedrooms, it’s crucial that it offers sufficient space for your needs. It should be roomy enough to accommodate your furniture, appliances, and other essential belongings. If you intend to live alone and are not a big fan of hosting guests, a studio will make a good residence.

On-site amenities

Apartments come with amenities, ranging from essential features such as HVAC to premium offerings like gym centers and swimming pools. Before choosing a rental property, you should consider the amenities offered.

In most cases, you will find an apartment with laundry facilities and a designated parking space. However, not all homes offer walk-in closets and other storage solutions. Also, you should ask the agent or landlord if pets are allowed and what pet amenities are on site.