Finding an apartment in a new city can be a daunting experience. Especially when moving to Boston where apartments rent quicker than free cookies. Despite the quick nature of the market there are some tips that can make your move a little bit easier. Having gone through the relocation experience to Boston a number of times, I now have the insight on the do’s and don’ts . You’re welcome. 😉

Determine Your Budget

Before your search, you should decide a price point you are comfortable with. If you aren’t familiar with how much real estate is in an area you can look through different listings or, if you have already found an agent, you can ask her. Determining your budget is an important step in the rental process because it will determine what places your agent show you. Being direct will help expedite the rental process and let the agent know you are serious by knowing what you’re looking for.

Location, Location, Location

Photo  by J-P F

Figure out what things are important to you when it comes to the location of your new home. You may not be able to have everything you want (although I’ll do our best to find that!) so you need to prioritize what things are most important. Things I would consider or ask my clients are: how important is proximity to work? Is there a grocery store close by? How accessible is public transportation? Is there a gym close by? Starbucks? We all have different lifestyles and priorities and figuring out what matters most to you can help you distinguish where exactly you want to be. This is also a great way to let your agent know what type of things you’re looking for in your new neighborhood.

Create Your “Wish List”

Photo by mcmrbt

Now that you’ve sorted in your head what’s important your agent should be able to determine your ideal locations (instead of running around to every apartment in your price range). Now you should consider the tangible things you want in an apartment. Make a list of everything (and by everything I don’t necessarily mean a built-in stone pizza oven in your bedroom, these requirements should be within reason) you ideally want your next home to have and determine which things are deal breakers. Some common amenities one may ask to include: Do I need laundry in the building? A dishwasher? Carpet vs. hard floors? Do I need a pet friendly building?

Now that you’ve determined price, location, and amenities you can’t live without, it will be easier to pinpoint your ideal apartment. From these deductions your agent will be able to lead you in the right direction and onto the steps of your new home!