Now that the world has loosened restrictions and people are redefining their independence again, you may be considering a move. If you’re on the fence about whether or not an apartment might be right for you, read on:

Maintenance – First, and arguably the leading reason to rent, is the ability to rely on a property manager when problems arise in your apartment. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, you have a built in safety net. The cost of repairs lands with the landlord/manager rather than the renter. Apartment buildings who utilize property managers are able to deal with issues quickly and hassle free. 

Cheaper Bills – Usually, many things are included in your monthly rent bill for an apartment, like electric, gas, water, security, trash collection, and sometimes more. It’s also cheaper to heat and cool an apartment rather than a house because of the square foot difference.

Amenities – Most apartment buildings these days have the basic in-unit amenities such as AC, granite countertops, and a dishwasher. But community amenities have become so important to tenants over the years, it’s easy to find an apartment complex that offers extra perks, like in-house gyms, pools, and community rooms. And better yet, the higher end apartments have even more to offer, such as guest suites for family and friends, spas, and valet trash service. 

No Mortgage – All you need is money for a deposit for an apartment. No mortgage necessary or large down payment, and you usually have the opportunity to collect your deposit back at the end of your lease if you choose to move out!

Many college graduates and young adults opted to move back in with mom and dad during the pandemic. But now that the world has opened back up, you may be considering finally moving out of your childhood bedroom and into your own space.

But how can you make sure you find the right apartment? Here are some checklist items to think about before signing that lease.

1. Budget – before starting the search, look over your finances and credit score. Rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30 percent of your gross income on rent. The 50/30/20 rule is a great budgeting technique to follow; 50 percent of your budget should go towards rent and bills, 30 percent of your budget is for wants, like shopping and eating out, and 20 percent is for savings.
2. Amenities – Consider your lifestyle. Do you need a pet-friendly apartment for your dog? Do you love to exercise and need to be near some hiking trails? Is an in-unit washer and dryer more important to you than being close to work? Understanding what you want versus what you need will be very beneficial in narrowing down your search. 
3. Apartment Building Location – Are you the type who needs peace and quiet after coming home from work? Or would the sounds of city night-life excite you in the evening? Consider how far you would want to be from grocery stores, gyms, and even family and friends. 
4. Apartment Unit Location – Property managers may show you a model unit to help you envision what you can do with the space when you move in, but it’s more helpful to see the specific unit you will be moving into. Are you living right above a noisy bar? Next to an elevator? How many stairs would you have to walk up? If considerate neighbors are a must, it’s probably best to avoid a unit next to a high-traffic common area. 
5. Lease – Your Property Manager will thank you if you actually take the time to read over your lease. Paying attention to what’s written in your lease will save you possible headaches in the future. Talk up front about what happens if you need to break your lease early, and what kind of fees you could be looking at if you do so.

Joanne Lippert, Suttons Property Manager of the Crouse Physicians Office Building, is retiring after 33 years of service. Joanne’s career started in May 1988 when Sutton was hired to manage The Meadows at Westbrook Hills during the foreclosure process. When asked what she did, she responded “everything” and was quickly promoted to Property Manager.

Joanne’s work ethic, high energy personality and commitment to the buildings she managed and the staff she worked so closely with has made her the ultimate team player. Joanne has been a contributing factor in the success of some of Sutton’s most interesting and high profile properties. In addition to Westbrook Hills, she managed Clarendon Heights Apartments, Hampton Estates Townhomes and is currently the manager and leasing agent for the Crouse Irving Memorial Physicians Office Building.

Although Sutton is no longer a family business, we behave as one, and Joanne is one of the fun siblings we will miss tremendously. Joanne is not only a respected employee, but a trusted friend. While everyone at Sutton will miss her, we are hopeful she will find the same success in retirement that she experienced during her time here. We wish her the best in her new home in South Carolina.

The pandemic taught many of us important life lessons, one of which being the importance of living intentionally. Safety, security, and happiness in our day to day lives became inherently important. But how can we incorporate that sense of happiness in the place we call home? How can we kick feelings of isolation and loneliness this past year brought on us? The answer? A pet! Here are the top reasons why pet-friendly apartments are the future of real estate.

 

1. Wellbeing – 2021 is all about improving your wellbeing. Owning a pet is a great way to keep your mental health in check. Dogs in particular have amazing amounts of emotional support benefits. 
2. Loneliness – If your workplace is still figuring out office flexibility, owning a pet can help reduce loneliness if you choose to stay a work-from-home employee. If you are not making the human connections you used to, animals can help decrease feelings of seclusion. 
3. Amenities – Most apartment buildings make owning a pet easy. Look for those who offer amenities such as washing stations or pet concierge services. Is your apartment near a park? This is a great way to meet other pet loving friends or join in on pet themed events like doggy fun runs. 
4. Trust and Retention – Chances are, if you feel like your needs are getting met by your apartment building, especially your pets needs, you are more likely to sign a long term lease. This is a win-win for you and your landlord. You can live worry free in an apartment that feels more like a home and less like a short-term placeholder. 

 

Sutton Real Estate offers many pet friendly apartments. Call us today to find out which one is right for you.