Apartment hunting is enjoyable and exciting, but it can also be tough work. Looking for a new home is fun because it gives you a fresh start and a chance to try some new things, make new friends and get a new lease on life. However, finding and choosing from the best 1-bedroom apartments Houston has to offer can be difficult work. Collecting and revising all the necessary information before you make a decision can prove to be challenging. There is a systematic and meticulous way that will provide you with the best results. The best way to pick the perfect 1-bedroom apartment to warm your heart is to follow a step-by-step process.
Step 1: Pick the perfect Houston neighborhood first
An excellent way to narrow down your possibilities is to pick the Houston neighborhood you want to live in. For example, you might want to live in a downtown apartment that is close to your workplace. The advantage of picking a neighborhood, in the beginning, is that it will limit your search and allow you to explore only the best and most suitable possibilities. If you are interested in multiple neighborhoods, this approach will provide you with more options.
Step 2: Determine your budget and gather the money.
According to research conducted by the United States Census Bureau, you should devote no more than 20-25% of your monthly income for your rent. For example, if you earn $5000 a month, your rental budget should not exceed $1000 to $1250. Since you will be looking for 1-bedroom apartments in Houston, your rent should be very affordable. However, it is a good idea to keep around three times the monthly rent handy while you sign your lease, because you will need to pay the advances and the security deposit. Systematically plan your monthly expenses and budget so that you can live comfortably and securely.
Step 3: Conduct a reality check and cut corners.
It is an essential step that most renters miss out on. It is only on the rarest of occasions where a renter finds the perfect apartment that falls perfectly into their budget. If you do not find the dream apartment you are looking for, don’t despair. Figure out a way to make trade offs and compromises so that you can achieve at least 80% to 85% of what you were initially aiming for. This kind of pragmatic reality check will allow you to find the best apartment in Houston.
Step 4: Visit the finalists and compare the apartments
The next step you have to undertake involves visiting all the flats on your shortlist and thoroughly observing them. Conduct a thorough check of the flats while you visit, including checking for pest infestations, water damage, mold, appliances, etc. It would help if you also considered aesthetics, convenience, comfort, livability, etc. Another thing that you should keep in mind is the amenities you will be requiring. These include a gym, swimming pools, laundry facilities, accessible parking, security, etc. After you are done, make a side-by-side comparison through a pros and cons list.
Signing off
Once you have compared the best 1-bedroom apartments in Houston side by side, you shall find the one that’s perfect for you. After this, all you need to do is go through the lease and make a move.