a list of useful things to consider when looking for an apartment... -------------------------------------------------------------------- layout - consider how your furniture, wall art will fit closet space ceiling height window size amount of natural light location, layout, number of power outlets quality of electric circuits/breakers what lighting does it come with? who is responsible for replacing the bulbs? do you have outdoor space? what kind of things would you put there and what would you do in inclement weather? kitchen layout - can you move around well counter space - is it easy to get work done and have enough space for coffee makers, counter applicances quality of fridge - self-defrosting, adequate freezer space, automatic ice makerfilter water dispenser kitchen cabinet space size of range and oven gas vs. electric vs. induction stove quality of kitchen appliances number of bathrooms locations of bathrooms, e.g. do you have a master suite? toilet flush strength, does the tank fully refill sink counter size medicine cabinet space amount of under sink/other in-bathroom storage size/shape of shower/bath shower's water pressure, temperature a/c situation heating situation how sealed are the windows? which utility companies service the place which utilities come included with the apartment does everything work? can you paint? can you put holes in the walls (usually fine, but some landlords are ridiculous about this) can you have pets? apartment key/security situation common space key/security situation how easy is it to copy keys/access cards and fobs is the building ADA accessible walkup vs. elevator where you get your mail can you get your packages when you aren't home what is the local etiquette for tipping doorman, building staff? laundry situation - in unit, in building, laundromat (and is there convenient wash and fold if nothing in unit or building) common spaces - how clean are the hallways, what amenities (courtyard, gym, lounge, etc.) are there what kind of parking is there, both bike and car who are your immediate neighbors what is the noise level inside the building? are there quiet hours? maybe you can even ask your potential immediate neighbors questions about the building and neighborhood you're considering renting in location public transportation situation school quality, if applicable neighborhood noise level - neighbors, neighborhood (esp. immediate), nearby transit, with and without windows open do you need to pay a broker's fee to get the lease? what information do you need to apply? (have this all ready ahead of time so you can pounce on the apartment you want) what are the terms of the lease? are you renting an apartment or a condo? condos often mean you can get kicked out more easily is it rent controlled? if so, what does that mean? what are the terms for breaking the lease if you decide to do so? are you allowed to sublet your apartment? if there are other apartments in your building, what's the policy for switching to them? buildings will often let you "upgrade" to a larger/more expensive apartment after a non-trivial part of your lease has passed what's the late payment policy? who would be your landlord? does your landlord live in the building/is there a live in super? how responsive is maintenance? what maintenance are you repsonsible for vs. what management is responsible for will the landlord repair problems before you move in? what's your security deposit? condition of floors, walls, counters, appliances, etc. - management must document these ahead of time, preferably with photos, so you don't get screwed when you move out