It’s Moving Season!

Spring has sprung and summer is on its way. Now let me guess, the end of your lease is coming up, isn’t it? So you begin doing a little apartment hunting. You view a few places, fall in love with one, call the leasing office the next day, anxious to submit all of your paperwork and bam! You’re hit with the news that it has already been rented. Sound familiar? You are not alone.

Why is this?

Between the months of May and September, the number of people moving increases significantly. If you think about it, this is just around the time that college students are getting out of or beginning school. The same goes for families with kids. Also, these months provide the most accommodating weather conditions for movers making the voyage from another state.

Now, do you want the good or bad news first? The good news is the higher turnover rate at this time means you may have a greater selection of  units to choose from. The bad news is that there are way more people looking to move at the same time as you. Meaning that more people are competing for that apartment that you know is perfect for you. This means that you will have to act quickly in finding a place, making a decision, and submitting your deposit and paper work or risk losing the apartment to other interested renters.

It’s stressful, I know. But here are a few tips to help you succeed this busy rental season.

Do your research
Get all of your questions answered before looking at a unit. Does it come with your non-negotiable amenities? Will it be available during a time frame that suits you well? Do they accept pets? Know how well a place suits your needs before taking the time to look at it.

Have a clear idea of your current situation
Do you know exactly when your lease ends? Would you be able to move out a few days sooner or later? If so- what will it cost to do so? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you make a decision in a timely manner.

Have your paperwork and deposit ready before looking at apartments
This way, when you find the absolute perfect space you won’t have to waste time scrambling to gather all of your paperwork together. Having everything together and immediately available will allow you to secure that apartment right there and then.

Knowledge is power
Just knowing that this is the busy season puts you at an advantage. Now put these useful tips. Get out there and get that apartment you love!

Cute kitty in a box photo courtesy of: http://41.media.tumblr.com/a57c75e8e7b9a9a1e44637392470d7ec/tumblr_nmb5y9cSLH1qkqtgco1_500.jpg