What to Look for in a New Apartment 

So, you’ve been searching for some time and finally found a rental.  It looks amazing on paper, and you’re eager to give it an in-person walkthrough. Still, don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Just like when searching for the best Wilmington moving companies, you must conduct proper research first.  

A tour will help you get a sense of the rental’s condition and what it might be like to live there, but to make the most of your visit, it’s better to go well prepared. To determine if an apartment is your dream home or not, here are some things to look out for on your first visit. 

Look Out For Working Lights on a New Potential Rental

Walk Through the Rental 

Touring the unit will allow you to assess the exact layout, see the window placement, and check its proximity to amenities such as stairwells and elevators. 

If another tenant was there before you, this is your opportunity to search for lingering odors or stains and request a special cleaning.  

  • Pro Tip: Visit the rental property at different times of the day to find out if it’s noisier during the night, if your neighbors are loud, or if parking becomes scant in the evening. 

Evaluate the Condition or Existence of Amenities 

While visiting, make sure to test that all appliances are working as they should. Among them, try out: 

  • Light switches 
  • Locks 
  • Doors, windows, and blinds 
  • Cabinets and closets  
  • Electrical outlets  
  • Water pressure  
  • Toilets, sinks, the tub, and shower  
  • HVAC and stoves, if there are any 
  • Cell reception 
  • Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors  

Pay particular attention to any feature that may require repair later on. 

  • Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight and a phone to take photos of any potential issues. The photos will help you keep a fresh image of any issue when you’re back home, deciding whether to sign a lease. 

Read Reviews of the Building 

When you’re comparing options, clients’ reviews can provide valuable third-party insight. 

If you’re renting an apartment, do research and read reviews about the building and its management company, if it has one. Try to find people who provide pros and cons, to get a more balanced perspective. 

  • Pro Tip: Watch for red flags. Are tenants complaining about the building’s maintenance? Are there complaints being overlooked? 

Ask Questions! 

The best time to ask questions about a property is when you first see it. To save you time, energy, and stress, here are an apartment’s must-ask questions

  • Do I need to get my own internet access?  
  • How are repairs handled, particularly during an emergency?  
  • How can I file a complaint?  
  • What is your pest-control policy?  
  • What other amenities are on site?  
  • Are there mandatory quiet hours?   
  • Can you move in with pets
  • Are there restrictions on painting or putting holes in the walls?  
  • Are utilities included in the cost? If not, how much do they cost on average? 
  • Pro Tip: North Carolina’s statewide average for basic utilities is around $450 per month. 
Wilmington Moving Companies Help You Move Into a New Potential Rental

Hire One of the Best Wilmington Moving Companies 

Every rental has advantages and disadvantages, but you don’t want to get so excited that you overlook things that can seriously impact your quality of life later on. Following these recommendations will bring you closer to finding the apartment of your dreams.  

Once that happens, give us a call

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

These were the most professional and hardworking guys!! We could not have had a more pleasurable move!! Definitely the best moving company out there

Chandra

All the guys were excellent to work with.They were respectful, strong, and went the extra mile for my difficult move into a 4 level historic home…with winding staircases…in the rain…Thorough and truly seemed to care. Great team!

Allen

These guys are very skilled at what they do! I sat and spoke with the foreman (I think moving crews have foremen?) at the CoolBox storage facility in Liberty Park. I watched them very quickly and efficiently load antique vending machines and the largest furniture I've ever seen. I was amazed.

Daniel

Great experience from start to finish! Booking process was smooth and simple. Heath did a great job contacting us prior and even gave us a special surprise the night before. Guys were extremely nice and professional. Took care of items as if they were their own. Would absolutely recommend 10/10

Kristin

This is the best, most professional moving company I’ve ever used! Great experience from start the finish!

Jessica