Washington DC is an amazing place to live, but finding a good apartment in the city can be difficult. However, as long as you know what to look for and ask the right questions, you can filter out the less ideal options and find the right one for you.
Here’s what to look for in apartments in Washington DC;
Amenities and utilities available
When hunting for an apartment in Washington DC, it is important to look for a place with utilities and amenities that will match your needs. Some common utilities that are typically included in most apartments include: water, heating, cooling, and electricity. Make sure to ask about the availability of each before signing a lease.
Some apartments in DC also include several building amenities like parking space, in-building laundry and even a fitness center. These additional features and perks can make you improve your stay in the new apartment significantly.
List the amenities that are important to you by order of priority because finding them all in one apartment is highly impossible. Ask about these features and how convenient and reliable they are before making a decision.
Knowing your preferred choice of amenities can help you find the most ideal apartment.
Location
Even more significant than staying in the best neighborhood is how close your apartment is to the things that are valuable to you such as work, public transportation, restaurants, and grocery stores.
How close is the apartment to a major highway or train station? How far is the nearest grocery store, mall, or entertainment spot? These are some of the questions that you must ask yourself when searching for an apartment.
It is advisable to look for an apartment that will allow you to save money on your commute. Once you’ve settled on the apartment’s location, determine the maximum commute time you’re willing to handle to get to work or other essential places like malls and grocery stores.
It is also important to ensure that the apartment has a good community feel and allows you to do what you love. For instance, if you enjoy cooking at home often, ensure that the apartment is within walking distance to a grocery store.
Parking
Usually, parking is often a major concern for most tenants in apartments. You must be able to park your car without too much hassle where you live. You don’t want to spend nearly half an hour circling the block on a daily basis looking for parking, no matter how ideal the apartment is.
When looking for an apartment, remember to ask about parking availability and the cost. Some apartments provide reserved parking for residents, while others may require you to park on the street. Be prepared to pay for a parking permit if the apartment does not provide parking options.
Also, remember to inquire about the cost of parking. Most apartments charge a flat fee for parking while others offer discounts for monthly or yearly membership. Be sure to ask about these options when looking into an apartment.
Are pets allowed?
The apartment’s pet policy is important whether you have a pet or not.
If you own a pet, ensure you review the pet policy beforehand. Some apartments do not allow pets, while others may only allow specific breeds or types of pets.
Always check with the management before bringing a pet into an apartment. Also, ensure that the location of the apartment is in a pet friendly neighborhood with amenities such as parks, paths, groomers and vets.
On the contrary, if you don’t like pets or have pet allergies, renting an apartment that allows pets can be harmful to your health.
Safety and security
When looking for an apartment, be sure to take into account the safety and security of your new home.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Ensure that the building is well-maintained and secure.
- Look for signs that the property has been regularly inspected and is up to code.
- Make sure that the entrances and exits are secure and well-lit.
- If you have concerns about your safety, ask the landlord or management company about installing extra security features, like cameras or locks on exterior doors.
- Also, be aware of who is living around you. Take the initiative to know your neighbors. It could mean the difference between life and death.
Space and storage
Space is another factor to consider when looking for an apartment. Most apartments come with a certain amount of square footage that you can use for living and storage. However, if you have lots of furniture and love a tidy home, look for a large apartment that offers more storage options.
It is also important to remember that some apartments come with minimal storage options like no closets or only one small closet. If you’re planning on renting for a long period of time, consider finding an apartment with more storage options like built-in closet organizers or lots of shelves and hooks.
Conclusion
There is a lot of consideration that goes into looking for the most ideal apartment. The above factors can help you filter through the less savory apartments and pinpoint your perfect match.
