If you're planning to rent an apartment, finding a place to call home can seem like a lengthy process. Your options will depend on your budget, lifestyle needs and preferences, and the property itself. Here's what you need to know about these steps, from doing the preliminary research to signing the lease agreement.

4 Steps in Getting a Rental

1. Set a Budget

Create a budget for your lease agreement by applying the 50/30/20 budget rule. Start with your income after taxes and allocate 50% of it to essential expenses, such as rent, food, clothing, and bills. Put the remaining 30% to entertainment and 20% into your rainy-day savings. This should give you an indication of which price range to look in.

2. Research the Neighborhood

If you're interested in a particular property, find out about its neighborhood. If you have a family or plan to start one, you should know whether the community is safe and kid-friendly. You'll also want to find out if the area has any schools, shopping centers, and other amenities, like parks, hospitals, and entertainment opportunities.

3. Schedule a Tour

Even if you take a virtual tour of a property, see the apartment or house in person before signing the lease agreement. A personal tour lets you feel the space's size and see its condition up close.

4. Sign the Lease 

Before signing a lease, read it closely and completely. Ask questions and seek legal counsel if there's anything you don't understand or seems to be missing.

Look for clauses about what utilities are included in the rent, how to give notice of repairs, and the terms of rental payments. Keep a copy of the lease agreement that's dated and signed by all parties.

If you're looking for a place to live, turn to Nova Property Management in Anchorage, AK. These professionals oversee various properties and have a comprehensive list of the area's latest available units and homes. They're friendly and easy to work with, providing you with answers to any questions and hosting tours during hours that meet your schedule. View their current listings online, or call (907) 522-1332 to inquire about a specific property.