5 Important Features to Look for When Searching for an Apartment

With so many different apartment options available in any given city, it’s hard to find the perfect one. Not only do you have to find one that’s affordable and in a favorable location, but you want one with 2 bedrooms, in-unit washer and dryer, a pet-friendly policy, central air, walk-in closets … the list could go on and on. And while the list of preferred features certainly varies from person to person, there’s no denying some features are worth paying more for than others. That being said, to help make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck in your new apartment, we’ve highlighted 5 of the most valuable features to look for:

1. The Layout

Before you make any decisions based on an apartment’s square footage, make sure you’ve also seen how the space is used. Does the apartment have a large living area, but tiny bedroom and bathroom? Are any of the rooms oddly shaped? Sometimes the square footage doesn’t paint an accurate picture of the apartment’s usability. Take a walk-through of the apartments you’re interested in and make note of the overall layout. Try to envision the space full of your furniture and picture how you would arrange things. Likewise, make sure you pay attention to where the electrical and cable outlets are when picturing where things will go.

2. Storage

Walk-in closets are always desirable, but you also have to think about the other storage options in the apartment. Are the cabinets and cupboards big enough? What other closets are there? Better yet, does the apartment come with a garage? These are all questions you should consider when it comes to storage.

3. Appliances

One of the most important things to look for when searching for a new apartment is seeing which appliances are provided in each unit. For example, does it come with a dishwasher, or will you have to wash everything by hand? Is there a washer and dryer included in-unit, or do you have to take your laundry somewhere else? What condition are the appliances in? If you pay utilities, are they energy efficient? New appliances can instantly update the look and feel of any apartment, as well as use less energy, so be sure to keep your eyes open for that during your search.

4. Noise/Light

Have you ever tried to get some sleep in a loud, bright room? It isn’t easy. When looking for a new apartment, you have to make sure you’re paying attention to the external environmental factors that could affect you while living there. Are you right next to a busy road with a lot of loud traffic? Were the neighbors loud during your visit? Both are things you should be looking and listening for. Likewise, don’t forget about sunlight. Does your apartment let a lot of natural light in, or do you have to rely on electrical light sources? Will the bright, rising/setting sun come through your windows and bother you? These are just a few more things to be aware of.

5. Bonus Features

Though the stars of your search should be the unit itself, sometimes apartment buildings offer special amenities and features that go above and beyond what’s expected. For example, does the apartment have a pool? What about a workout facility? Is there a common area that you can rent for parties, or an outdoor space specifically for pets? Each of these things can help add to the enjoyment of living in a particular unit.

At Springs, you’ll find that we offer many of these desirable features in our apartments. From garages and walk-in closets, to spacious layouts and modern appliances, you’re bound to find a unit that’s perfect for you. To view some of our available options online, check out our Location Browser, and feel free to contact us with any questions!