What do you look for in a new apartment?

- evidence of bugs/rodents. Most places will make sure they've cleaned well so this doesn't show, but things like tiny black "sand" on counters, in corners, under the sinks, etc can mean roaches, small (even tiny) gaps between walls, floor and wall, or too-large holes around pipes can mean mice.

- i always want a patio or a little bit of yard so i can either put flowers on the patio or do a little gardening in the yard. a little two-seat swing is nice to sit in on nice days too, so i look for space for mine.

- storm windows

- decent size closets

- parking in brightly lit lot or in a place where you can see your car from the apartment

- deadbolts and locks on windows

- ask about rules about things like: grills, where to park bicycles, hanging pictures, allowed pets (even small pets in cages can be an issue at some places)... whether you can paint the rooms

- whether they offer annual carpet cleaning

- whether they have a monthly pest control service

- how much of your deposit you'll get back (some places automatically keep 100 dollars or so to clean the place after you leave. even if you leave it spotless. it's nuts).

- if you can view it in the evening it is good so you can hear how loud neighbors are (in the daytime most people are at work).

- if the unit isn't air conditioned, ask whether you're allowed to install window units or ceiling fans...

- if it is air conditioned, and it is one of those wall units that does the a/c and heat, look at the layout of the apt to make sure it looks like the air/heat will circulate into bedrooms, etc. if it is on central air/heat, make sure you have access to the thermostat.

- ask if the unit has it's own hot water heater.

- in older units: look to make sure there are enough electrical outlets/phone jacks. make sure there is a breaker box that you can get to.

- this is kinda random, but if you're going to look at a place and you know it is going to rain tomorrow, go tomorrow. i've been to two viewings on rainy days where i found out that windows or roofs leaked.

- in addition to cell coverage, you might also ask the property manager what companies provide dsl/cablemodem to that area.

- ask what the maintenance policies are. is there onsite staff? are you guaranteed resolution within a set amount of time?

- what penalties you pay if you have to get out of the lease early.

- a pool/workout room

when you are getting ready to rent:

- always, ALWAYS, act like you're not sure about it, and ask if there are any incentives that they are offering cause you are also thinking seriously about (the name of some nearby comparible complex). you can often get a month free or reduced deposit.

- if it is a complex or apt building, ask if they have discounts or coupons for u-haul trucks, phone companies, cable companies, nearby home improvement stores and the like. also, make sure you do your change of address with the packet the post office has cause there are coupons in there.

when you are getting ready to move in:

- bring a nightlight. plug it into EVERY outlet. i almost always find one or two that don't work.

- make a list of everything that isn't exactly perfect (spots/holes in carpet, walls, stains/scratches on counters/appliances, outlets that don't work, water damage anywhere (especially under sink drains)... sign and date it and have the landlord sign it and make a copy for you and one for him to keep. (this is to make sure you can get as much of your deposit back as possible.

Safety and security...talk to the neighbors. My apartment was robbed by a group of women renting U-Haul trucks at the first and mid-month and backing up to apartments. No one ever noticed since it's usual to move in or out on those days. The security officer was later arrested for involvement.

Storage...inside and out. I have camping equipment, bicycle, Christmas decorations and crafting misc. I do not want to pay additional rent for an extra bedroom to have a "storage room."

Try to check it out during the daytime hours to observe the kind of neighbors you will have, then go back over in the evening. You can usually tell if this is an environment you would want to live...noise(?), pets running loose (?), loud activities that may conflict with study or sleep requirements(?)

Test all plumbing and electrical devices. Which appliances does it have? W/D or connections? Are any utilities included in rent? Damage deposit, pet deposit, accessible parking? In case of illness (or your case, possible pregnancy later), is it still easily accessible (?), is there "room to grow(?) Last but not least, you can call the local utility company and ask what the average bill was for that address in the previous year to get a general idea of costs and if it will heat and cool adequately.

I think you're on the right track doing your homework before you move. I saw several things on your list that would've helped me when I was apartment hunting. Hopefully the ones I suggested will help you and your wife-to-be.

What you're getting for the amount of rent you are paying:

1. Location or proximity to employment

2. amount of space

3. conveniences within the apartment or close to the apartment

4. Amount of Deposit

5. Restrictions: animals, visitors, etc.

6. What's in the contract

7. Which utilities are included

8. Security

These are good starting points.

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I guess by new apartment you meant for purchase. Well first sort out the budget you can afford, then start looking for a decent apartment withing that range then jot down the priorities of taking new apartment. like, proximity, features, space, view, etc. then try to match with the aparmtent on hand with the things you wrote. rest is all easy. best of luck.

Leaky faucets & toilet (look under sink cabinets for water

damage or mold) If air conditioner works and windows open.

Many others things also, like Parking space, neighbors, pets, kids, double bolt locks and if apartment is big enough.

Yes, lot of people can use it. I learnt this when I had to stay alone for few days

1) Electricity

2) Water

3) Basic Furniture

4) Good environment

Either washer/dryer connections, or washer/dryer being included. It just makes sense to save money!

Accessibility, cost, general structure, safety/security

New places to hide my stash!