Location is Key! Consider All of These Factors:

Neighborhood Safety

Public Transportation

Parking, street? Off street? Garage? Do you have to pay?

Taxes

School Districts

Location of essentials, including drug stores, grocery stores, local doctors, and hospitals.

Reputation of the area, is it well know for its? night life? Scenic parks, friendly neighbors?

What is the Apartment Like?

?Get an estimate of the cost of utilities to factor into your rent.
?Speak with the other tenants, they know first hand if the apartments are comfortable, how responsible the landlord is, and what to expect as far as noise level, cleanliness, and rules and restrictions.
?Does the apartment have amenities, laundry, gas or electric stove, refrigerator, A/C, heating (gas or electric), ample electrical outlets, cable and phone hook ups, internet service (Dial up, DSL, or Cable?)? Is it furnished? You need to think about what is most important to you, and what you can afford on your budget.
?If you own pets, you need to find out what the pet policy is. Are there breed, weight or number restrictions? Will you be responsible for a pet deposit and is it one time or monthly?
?Check the apartment for any flaws, it is best to walk around a make a list and or take pictures of cracks in the walls, water stains, or broken amenities to present to the landlord, this will help in any security deposit disputes.

Once You've Found Your Place:

Be sure that you can provide good references for your new landlord.

Get a credit check, often a new landlord will require a credit check.

Be honest on your tenant application.

Make sure that you have enough money for the security deposit as well as the first month's rent and utilities.