The time has come to rent an apartment, but you don’t know how to get started. Before you start looking for an apartment you want to take some steps first to know what you can afford and set up a goal or time frame of how long you want to rent for.
Determine Your Budget:
How much can you realistically spend on your first apartment? Start with your earnings and how much you make a month. Then Subtract all your monthly bills such as utilities and or monthly subscriptions and vehicle insurance and payments. Also set aside for other expenses. Consider how you’ll spend your income when rent comes into play. Keep in mind that you may have to present paystubs or other proof that you can afford the rent before your application. Usually, you want to make three times what the rent would be for approval. Set aside money for application fees and or deposit as well.
Check Your Credit:
Many rental agreements require you to submit a credit check by the landlord. They want to see at least a decent credit score (preferably above 670 on the FICO scoring model) because a healthy credit score can indicate a responsible future renter. Here with Credit Services of America we can offer a free credit consultation to be able to discuss and go over your credit profile and score to make sure you have a strong credit profile.
By reviewing your credit it will avoid any surprises or stipulations landlord may require such as a big down payment or deposit or co signer. With Credit Services of America we can assist with any negative information that is affecting your credit score and profile. Also we will be reviewing and can assist with creating credit with our Tradelines not only to affect your credit score but also assist with your credit profile to be candidate that the landlord would like to have. We offer Debt Settlements as well to resolve any debt you may have acquired and/or student loan consolidation to help you with your student loans.
Looking over your credit first will help you in the long run to address any potential issues and help better budget for your future and long term goals.
View Multiple Rentals:
Once you have a budget and strong credit profile then you want to start looking for rentals. Don’t settle on the first apartment you find. Or even the second or third. Cast a wide net to catch the best rental for you. Here’s the key: Never look at rentals above your budget. You could get swept up with the fancy visions and find yourself woefully unsatisfied with what you end up with (or, even worse, renting at a higher rate than you can afford).
Gather Your References:
You may need to provide your rental history or get the go-ahead from a previous landlord when renting an apartment. But for first-time renters, a personal reference can testify to your character if you have no landlords to call on. Essentially, a coworker or friend can submit a short letter so the leasing office doesn’t get too worried that you’re a fan of breaking windows or hoarding exotic pets. To protect yourself and keep the process rolling, it may be a good idea to have a few reference options in your back pocket in case someone doesn’t get back to you quickly.
Read the Contract Closely:
Yes, it’s probably long and very boring. But every rental has different fine print, and it’s vital you read the details. For example, you might forfeit your security deposit just by hanging curtains or a couple of pictures.
Ask the Right Questions:
Go ahead and ask all your questions. How thin are the walls—and what are your options if your upstairs neighbor practices bowling every night at 2 a.m.? Is the cell service consistent, or do renters often mention dropped calls within their walls? Determine which components are important to you, and bring those points up to avoid any unhappy surprises.
Conclusion:
When it comes to rent it should be a very exciting time done correctly. Taking the necessary steps to make sure you are in the best position to be approved and can afford is vital to making the experience excellent. Taking these steps will also place you in a great position to later become a home owner and managing your credit with your rental history and your budgeting skill set will definitely prepare you for your end game. Credit Services of America will get you started by helping you with your FREE credit consultation and help you with credit repair, debt settlement or student loan consolidation and credit trade lines to improve your credit scores.
A Goal without a Plan is just a Wish. Give us a call TODAY at 844-FIX-URCR or click on the following link creditservicesofamerica.com to schedule your FREE consultation and create your personalize plan to achieve your credit and debt GOALS!