Finding the perfect humble abode can be a challenging yet exciting experience with preparedness. Whether it is your first apartment ever, or if you are already familiar with the process, it is important yet rewarding to conduct a thorough search to find the perfect apartment for you! Ready to get started? Here are the six most important tips to consider as you prepare for your apartment pursuits.

1. Set Your Budget

The first and most important step in finding a lavish Camden apartment is to set a realistic and measurable budget. Most experts recommend a 50/30/20 guideline when it comes to managing a cohesive budget. This rule suggests that you should spend 50% of your after-tax pay on needs such as rent, utilities, and transportation, 30% on wants, and 20% of earnings should be devoted to savings and financial goals. When setting a budget, also keep in mind that the total amount for the apartment home includes more than rent only. You’ll need to budget for monthly utilities, parking fees,  and Camden’s Technology Package. In addition, moving and furnishing expenses should also be calculated as well.

2. Check Out the Neighborhood and the Community

When conducting a thorough Camden apartment search, it is important to explore not only the community but the general area surrounding the apartment. Three important metrics in real estate are Location, Location, Location. So, that specific notion should be put at the absolute top of the priority list after the budget. Visit the local farmers market, spend an afternoon at a nearby park, and even explore nearby destinations that you may want to enjoy near your new potential dwelling. Why is it important, you may ask? It helps envision life in your specific apartment home as well as the area surrounding it.

3. Ask Friends and Your Extended Network for Location Advice

Do you know someone who currently lives and/or once lived in the area in which you are interested in? Oftentimes, the best advice and knowledge come from personal experiences. Devote some time to talk to anyone in your sphere of influence to get an insider’s perspective, thus also easing your mind. All Camden communities have a state-of-the-art Resident Referral Program, which could benefit both you and your friend by giving you advice on where to live.

photo courtesy of Camden

4. Ask Questions

Now you are out touring beautiful, exquisite luxury Camden apartment communities, but you suddenly find it is hard to narrow down which ones fit your criteria on a day-to-day basis. Make a list of top priorities. Do you have a pet? Ask specifics about pet policies as well as amenities for your furry friends! Have an electric vehicle? Maybe ask if this Camden community has electric car charging stations! Are you looking to have certain amenities? Make sure to tour the communities common areas and/or other shared building amenities available for your usage during the lease term! It is always insightful to be armed with the most relevant information to your living needs and determine the strengths and weaknesses of each Camden apartment community.

5. Understand the Lease

Now that you found the perfect Camden apartment home, it is time to apply! Right? Well before applying for an apartment home with Camden, it is important to ask questions about your new lease. How long are the lease terms? What if you must relocate in the middle of your lease, and there is another Camden in such a city? It is important to understand the details of the lease beforehand since it offers both flexibility and security in making the right long-term decision for you.

6. Consider the Move

You signed your lease and made an informed decision on a breathtaking apartment home. Great! Now it’s time to plan the move. Do a thorough search of what furniture accommodates the space, look, and see if the Camden community offers anything such as service elevators and loading docks for moving trucks, and even evaluate if you need to hire professional help or move amongst yourself.

With these tips in mind, you are bound to have a smooth transition to a beautiful Camden community that checks all your boxes. Find your next apartment today with Camden!